Education News from Ghana

The latest education news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

Ghana Government Expands GETFund to Support Special Needs Education as NGOs Champion Inclusive Learning
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Ghana Government Expands GETFund to Support Special Needs Education as NGOs Champion Inclusive Learning

The Ghanaian government has launched a significant initiative to bolster inclusive education by amending the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) Act to provide dedicated financial support for learners with special educational needs. Announced by the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, the new policy broadens the scope of educational financing beyond the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program to specifically address the financial barriers faced by children with disabilities. A key component of this initiative is the commitment by GETFund to cover all feeding costs for students in public special and integrated schools, ensuring that meal provision is uninterrupted and equitable across the country. This policy shift aims to create a more resilient educational framework that prioritizes social inclusion and equal learning opportunities for all children, regardless of their physical abilities or socio-economic status. By securing sustainable funding for nutritional support and specialized resources, the government seeks to eliminate the uncertainties that often plague special education institutions. Minister Iddrisu emphasized that the amendment is a critical step toward ensuring that every Ghanaian child can access quality learning environments, thereby improving overall educational outcomes and fostering a more inclusive society. While the government focuses on systemic changes, organizations such as the Ghana Blind Union (GBU) and VISIO International are working at the grassroots level to transform the lives of individual students. A notable case is that of Hafsatu Iddrisu, an eight-year-old visually impaired girl who had never attended school due to her family's poverty. Initially used by her mother to evoke sympathy while seeking business funds, Hafsatu’s life was changed when the GBU and the Holistic Development Programme for Visually Impaired Children (HODVIC) intervened. After receiving an eye examination and educational supplies, she was enrolled in the Akropong School for the Blind, where she is now thriving and adapting well to academic life. The success of these interventions is mirrored in the experiences of other parents, such as Madam Eunice, who has transitioned from despair to advocacy after seeing her daughter’s transformation. After her daughter lost her sight following cataract surgeries, Eunice found hope through the GBU’s Educational Support Programme. Her daughter’s subsequent enrollment at the Akropong School for the Blind led to a remarkable increase in her confidence and independence. These narratives highlight a growing shift in public perception, where parents are increasingly viewing disability not as a limitation, but as a potential for redirection through the power of education. Ultimately, the synergy between government policy and NGO advocacy underscores a collective commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable children in Ghana. The GBU continues to call for increased public and private support to help more children like Hafsatu access the specialized education they deserve. By combining the systemic financial backing of the GETFund with community-based advocacy and enrollment programs, Ghana is moving toward a future where education serves as the primary engine for independence and success for all citizens, including those with special educational needs.

Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Education
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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Orders Dismissal of Students Selling Marijuana as Government Cracks Down on School Indiscipline

The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has issued a stern directive to the Ghana Education Service (GES) to immediately dismiss any senior high school student caught peddling narcotics, specifically marijuana, on school campuses. Speaking in Parliament, the Minister expressed grave concern over the "alarming" rise in drug-related activities and general indiscipline within pre-tertiary institutions. This directive is part of a broader government effort to sanitize the educational environment and protect innocent students from the negative influence of drug dealers and unruly peers, ensuring that schools remains safe havens for learning. Beyond drug peddling, the Minister highlighted a disturbing trend of extreme misconduct, including students carrying firearms, assaulting teachers, and vandalizing school property. He cited instances where students resisted the installation of CCTV cameras intended for security, viewing such measures as a hindrance to their illicit activities. To address these systemic issues, the Minister proposed a review of the current disciplinary regime to empower school administrators and the GES with more authority to enforce regulations. He also announced plans to convene a national conference involving parents, educators, and community leaders to develop a comprehensive roadmap for restoring discipline and behavioral standards in schools. In a proactive move to curb substance abuse, the Ministry of Education has partnered with the Ministry for the Interior and the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) to launch a nationwide Behavioral Change Communication (BCC) campaign. This initiative introduces daily anti-drug awareness messages into pre-tertiary schools, which are to be recited during morning assemblies. The campaign aims to foster a culture of responsible decision-making among learners and follows recent high-profile efforts by NACOC to publicly destroy seized narcotics, signaling a zero-tolerance policy toward drug use among the youth. Emphasizing that discipline is a shared responsibility, the Minister called on parents and society at large to support teachers in instilling moral values in students. While addressing these internal disciplinary challenges, the Ghana Education Service has also had to defend the integrity of the educational system against external misinformation. The GES recently refuted viral social media claims that recent floodwaters had destroyed WASSCE examination papers, necessitating a resit for affected candidates. Officials urged the public to disregard such fake news and rely only on official channels for information, reinforcing the government's commitment to maintaining order and truth within the education sector.

Dr Clement Abas Apaak (left), Deputy Minister for Education, presenting a cash donation to Yussif Abdul Fatawu, the teacher, in Bolgatanga
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Education Ministry Rolls Out New Incentives for Rural Teachers; Honors Veteran Educator for 19 Years of Service in Bawku

The Ministry of Education has announced a comprehensive suite of incentives designed to attract and retain teachers in rural and underserved communities across Ghana. Central to these reforms is a significant reduction in the qualifying period for study leave with pay. According to Minister for Education Haruna Iddrisu, teachers posted to deprived areas will now be eligible for paid study leave after just two years of service, down from the previous requirement of three years. This move is intended to motivate professionals to accept postings in remote locations by accelerating their opportunities for professional development and career advancement. Beyond study leave reforms, the government is introducing a 20% rural posting allowance to compensate educators for the challenging working conditions often found in hard-to-reach areas. To address the perennial challenge of accommodation, the government is launching the 'Teacher Dabre Housing Initiative.' This program will utilize the Ghana Social Opportunities Project (GSOP) pension fund as collateral to provide housing for educators. Furthermore, the Minister emphasized that all future school construction contracts will now be mandated to include residential housing for teachers, ensuring that infrastructure development serves both students and staff simultaneously. In a related development that highlights the spirit of service the government seeks to foster, Deputy Minister of Education Dr. Clement Abas Apaak recently honored Yussif Abdul Fatawu, a teacher who has served in the conflict-prone Bawku municipality for 19 years. In recognition of his unwavering commitment to education despite persistent insecurity and personal risk, Mr. Fatawu was presented with a cash donation of GH¢10,000. Dr. Apaak commended the teacher’s dedication, noting that such heroism is vital for maintaining the educational aspirations of children in volatile regions. Mr. Fatawu expressed his gratitude and pledged to continue serving as a role model for his colleagues and students alike. These policy shifts and individual recognitions represent a broader strategic effort by the Ghanaian government to bridge the educational gap between urban and rural areas. By addressing core welfare issues—such as financial incentives, housing, and professional growth—the Ministry aims to ensure equitable access to quality education for every child, regardless of their geographical location. These measures are expected to significantly enhance teacher retention rates and improve the overall quality of educational delivery in the nation's most underserved districts.

Ghana’s Education Sector Faces Vision Crisis Amid Infrastructure and Leadership Concerns
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Ghana’s Education Sector Faces Vision Crisis Amid Infrastructure and Leadership Concerns

Ghana's education sector is reportedly at a crossroads, with experts warning that the primary challenge facing the nation's schools is not a lack of resources, but a significant deficit in leadership vision and strategic direction. A critical assessment of the current administration under the Ministry of Education suggests that the system is drifting without a clear agenda to tackle long-standing systemic failures. This lack of urgency is seen as a major barrier to improving educational outcomes for millions of Ghanaian children who continue to navigate a struggling academic environment. The gravity of the situation is underscored by alarming statistics regarding basic school infrastructure. Data reveals that approximately 2.3 million children across the country currently lack desks, forcing many to learn in uncomfortable and undignified conditions. Furthermore, the sector is plagued by an inequitable distribution of teachers and a severe lack of adequate facilities, with many existing school buildings having gone without renovation for several decades. Critics argue that while the government often focuses on new projects, the neglect of existing infrastructure has created a widening gap in the quality of education available to students in different regions. To arrest this decline, education analysts are calling for a fundamental shift in policy and implementation. Proposed reforms include a comprehensive review of the Education Strategic Plan to ensure it aligns with modern realities and immediate needs. There is a strong recommendation for the Ministry to prioritize the renovation of dilapidated structures over the commencement of new construction projects. Additionally, implementing a targeted campaign focused on early-grade literacy is seen as essential for building a solid foundation for future academic success. Without these decisive actions and a clear, unified vision, the education system risks further marginalizing the very students it is meant to empower.

GAMI Headmaster Mr. David Yaw Ansah Advocates for Integration of Experiential Learning via Educational Excursions
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GAMI Headmaster Mr. David Yaw Ansah Advocates for Integration of Experiential Learning via Educational Excursions

Mr. David Yaw Ansah, the Headmaster of God’s Angel Montessori International School (GAMI), has made a passionate call for educational institutions across Ghana to prioritize experiential learning by making excursions a core part of their academic curricula. Speaking during a recent school visit to the Achimota Forest, Mr. Ansah emphasized that moving beyond the traditional classroom setting is essential for providing students with a holistic education that bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. He noted that the integration of such field-based learning is critical for modern pedagogical development, ensuring that students gain a deeper understanding of their environment. During the excursion, Mr. Ansah highlighted how direct exposure to natural and professional environments significantly enhances a student's grasp of complex subjects such as Science and Social Studies. He noted that observing biological diversity or historical landmarks firsthand allows learners to internalize concepts that might otherwise remain abstract in a textbook. According to the Headmaster, these field-based experiences are not merely leisure activities but vital pedagogical tools that foster critical thinking, boost self-confidence, and spark a genuine interest in environmental conservation among young learners. This hands-on approach ensures that students can relate what they read to what they see in the physical world. The advocacy comes at a time when there is a growing global shift toward hands-on learning models. Mr. Ansah argues that when students are given the opportunity to interact with their surroundings, they develop a stronger sense of social responsibility and a better appreciation for nature. By embedding these trips into the school calendar, educators can create a more dynamic learning environment that caters to different learning styles, ensuring that students are not just memorizing facts but are developing the analytical skills necessary for success in the 21st century. This method encourages an active rather than passive form of education. In his concluding remarks, the GAMI Headmaster urged school administrators and curriculum developers to view excursions as an investment in the future of the Ghanaian student. He called for a deliberate effort to design structured educational tours that align with specific learning objectives, ensuring that every trip contributes meaningfully to the student's academic and personal growth. As schools look to produce well-rounded citizens, Mr. Ansah’s proposal serves as a reminder that the world outside the classroom is often the most effective laboratory for learning, shaping students into socially responsible and environmentally aware individuals.

Educational Milestones: Okyeame Kwame and Royal Diadem School Celebrate Student Success and Teacher Impact
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Educational Milestones: Okyeame Kwame and Royal Diadem School Celebrate Student Success and Teacher Impact

The Ghanaian educational landscape is currently buzzing with graduation celebrations, highlighting the collaborative effort between parents, students, and educators in shaping the nation's future leaders. Recent ceremonies, ranging from international O-Level graduations to local basic education milestones, have underscored the critical importance of character development and the often-overlooked role of teachers in the academic journey. These events serve as a poignant reminder that academic success is a shared responsibility that extends beyond the classroom walls. Prominent Ghanaian musician Okyeame Kwame recently brought national attention to the value of educators following his daughter Sante Nsiah Apau’s O-Level graduation from Galaxy International School. In a public show of gratitude, the artist praised the school’s faculty for their significant role in his daughter's upbringing and academic achievements. His remarks resonated with many, as he emphasized that raising a child is a collective duty. By using his platform to acknowledge teachers—who are frequently sidelined in public celebrations of student success—Okyeame Kwame highlighted the profound influence educators have during a child's formative years. In a similar vein of celebration and reflection, Royal Diadem School held its 2026 graduation ceremony on July 26, honoring its Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates. The event, which drew over 200 guests, featured cultural performances and an awards ceremony that recognized both high-achieving students and committed staff members. The Headmaster, Mr. Nichols Amevor, delivered a stirring address urging the graduates to carry the values of discipline, integrity, and academic excellence with them as they transition to Senior High School (SHS). Since its founding in 1992, Royal Diadem has grown to serve approximately 600 students, maintaining a focus on holistic development. As these students prepare for the next chapters of their educational careers, whether through international O-Levels or the national SHS system, the message from both the celebrity father and the school leadership remains consistent: academic results must be paired with strong moral character. The recognition of teachers at both Galaxy International and Royal Diadem School suggests a growing public consciousness regarding the need to support and appreciate the teaching profession. For Ghana’s youth, these graduation milestones represent not just an end to one phase of schooling, but the beginning of a journey where the values of integrity and hard work will be tested in higher academic and social spheres.

GES and GHS Launch Malaria Prevention Campaign to Safeguard Students' Academic Future
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GES and GHS Launch Malaria Prevention Campaign to Safeguard Students' Academic Future

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has underscored the critical link between health and academic performance, describing the latest school-based malaria prevention campaign as a strategic investment in the nation’s future. In a joint briefing with the Ghana Health Service (GHS), the GES called for intensified efforts to protect children from malaria through the consistent use of Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) and the uptake of malaria vaccines. This collaborative initiative aims to reduce absenteeism and improve cognitive outcomes by addressing one of the leading causes of illness among school-aged children across the country. Theresa Oppong Mensah, the National Coordinator for the GES, emphasized during the briefing that the success of the educational sector is intrinsically tied to the health of its students. She noted that malaria remains a significant barrier to learning, often causing students to miss school or struggle with concentration due to recurring bouts of the disease. "Health and education are interconnected," Mensah stated, highlighting that a child who is healthy and protected from malaria is far better equipped to succeed in the classroom. To combat this, the GES is advocating for a multi-pronged approach that combines the distribution of ITNs with the promotion of malaria vaccinations in eligible regions. A major focus of the campaign is the proper and consistent use of ITNs. The GES issued a stern warning against the misuse of these nets for unintended purposes, such as gardening or fishing, which undermines the primary goal of preventing mosquito bites. Families are urged to ensure that every net provided is utilized every night to maximize its protective benefits. Beyond simple distribution, the GES is calling for active community involvement to monitor net usage and educate parents about the life-saving benefits of the malaria vaccine. By fostering a culture of prevention, the service hopes to create a safer environment for children both at home and in school. As the campaign moves forward, the GES and GHS plan to integrate malaria education more deeply into the school curriculum and community outreach programs. The ultimate goal is to move beyond temporary interventions toward a sustainable model where malaria prevention becomes a daily habit for every Ghanaian household. By prioritizing these health measures today, the GES believes it is laying the foundation for a more resilient and educated workforce tomorrow, ensuring that no child’s potential is cut short by a preventable and treatable disease.

Prof. Monica Mensah Danquah (2nd from left), Professor of Information Science, Department of Information Studies, University of Ghana, Legon; Lydia Nyantakyi-Baah (3rd from right), University Librarian, UniMAC, and Professor Christiana Hammond (2nd from right), Rector of Institute of Journalism, UniMAC, jointly cutting the cake to officially launch the 2026 Maiden Library Week celebration
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Prof. Monica Mensah Danquah Urges Modernization of Libraries Through AI and Digital Innovation

Professor Monica Mensah Danquah has called for a radical transformation of libraries into innovation hubs, urging institutions to embrace emerging technologies to remain relevant in the digital age. Speaking at the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UNIMAC) Library Week, she emphasized that the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and shifting user expectations necessitate a shift from traditional models. This evolution is seen as critical for maintaining the educational quality and community relevance of academic libraries in Ghana, transforming them from passive information repositories into active centers of discovery. During her keynote address, Professor Danquah outlined five strategic priorities for developing future-ready libraries. These include enhancing digital infrastructure, providing specialized training for library staff to handle modern demands, and integrating AI into service delivery. She also advocated for the expansion of access to diverse digital resources and the fostering of collaborative partnerships across institutions. Despite the clear path forward, she acknowledged significant hurdles that remain, such as chronic underfunding and existing digital skills gaps, which currently impede the full realization of modern library services in the country. The event also highlighted UNIMAC’s specific efforts to modernize its services, with Librarian Lydia Nyantakyi-Baah underscoring the institution's commitment to this transition. With the backing of university management, these initiatives aim to bridge the digital divide and provide students with the tools necessary for contemporary research and innovation. The transformation of libraries is increasingly viewed not just as a technical upgrade, but as a foundational step toward fostering lifelong learning and national development within Ghana's educational landscape.

Dr Shafic Suleman (3rd from left), Executive Secretary, PURC, handing over laptop computers to Prof. Dennis Aheto (4th from right), Vice-Chancellor, UCC
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PURC Enhances UCC Oil and Gas Institute with Tech Donation Amidst Electricity Billing Dispute with ECG

The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has taken significant steps to bolster the relationship between industry and academia by donating vital IT equipment to the University of Cape Coast (UCC). During a high-level visit to the campus, the Commission presented 10 desktop computers and two laptops specifically for the University’s Institute for Oil and Gas Studies (IOGS). This initiative aims to strengthen the capacity of the institute in its mission to nurture the next generation of energy sector professionals, ensuring that students have access to the necessary tools to navigate the complexities of Ghana’s evolving energy landscape. PURC Executive Secretary, Dr. Shafic Suleman, underscored that supporting educational institutions is a strategic priority for the Commission as it seeks to bridge the gap between theoretical training and industry requirements. While the donation was a focal point of the engagement, the meeting also served as a critical forum for UCC leadership to address pressing utility challenges. Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto expressed gratitude for the technological support but also formally raised serious concerns regarding a persistent electricity metering and billing dispute with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). The university administration revealed that academic and administrative activities have been significantly disrupted by these inconsistencies. A major point of friction involves ECG’s plan to install prepaid meters across 700 building units on the campus, a move the university contends violates a previous agreement regarding the management of campus utilities. In response to these challenges, the PURC has committed to a fair and transparent resolution of the impasse between the university and the utility provider. Dr. Suleman accepted a formal petition from the university and indicated that the Commission would soon engage with ECG management to mediate the conflict. Furthermore, the PURC proposed conducting a comprehensive energy audit at the University of Cape Coast to establish a factual basis for future billing and to identify potential areas for energy conservation. This intervention reflects the Commission's dual role as both a supporter of sectoral development and a regulator dedicated to ensuring fair treatment for large-scale institutional consumers.

GES Suspends Salary of Bole SHS Teacher Wanted Over Alleged Sexual Misconduct
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GES Suspends Salary of Bole SHS Teacher Wanted Over Alleged Sexual Misconduct

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially suspended the salary of a teacher at Bole Senior High School following serious allegations of sexual misconduct involving a student. The teacher, who was already under interdiction as part of an internal inquiry, has reportedly absconded from his post and remains untraceable. This disappearance has prompted the GES to formally involve the Ghana Police Service to track down the suspect and bring him to justice. Director-General of the GES, Professor Ernest Kofi Davis, confirmed that the decision to halt the teacher's remuneration was a direct consequence of his failure to remain at his post and cooperate with the ongoing investigation. The teacher had been previously interdicted to allow for a fair probe into the claims of inappropriate conduct, but his subsequent flight has shifted the case from a purely disciplinary matter to a criminal pursuit. Professor Davis emphasized that the service views this as a severe breach of professional standards and is prioritizing the protection of the victim. The GES is currently collaborating closely with the police to ensure a comprehensive investigation is conducted. Authorities have stated that if the allegations are substantiated, the individual will face the full weight of both administrative disciplinary measures and legal prosecution. The Director-General reiterated that the service maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of misconduct that compromises the safety and well-being of learners in educational institutions across the country. This incident has sparked renewed discussions regarding the enforcement of the teachers' code of ethics and the necessity of robust safeguarding mechanisms within Ghanaian schools. As the search for the fugitive teacher continues, the GES has reassured parents and the public of its commitment to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment. The service is also expected to review internal monitoring protocols to prevent such instances of misconduct and ensure that justice is served promptly when they occur.

Mfantsipim Old Boys Association Golf Club Launches Sesquicentennial Trophy to Raise $2 Million for School Endowment
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Mfantsipim Old Boys Association Golf Club Launches Sesquicentennial Trophy to Raise $2 Million for School Endowment

The Mfantsipim Old Boys Association (MOBA) Golf Club has officially launched the Sesquicentennial trophy, a flagship sporting event marking the countdown to Mfantsipim School's landmark 150th anniversary. Established in 1876 as Ghana's first secondary school, Mfantsipim is preparing to celebrate a century and a half of educational excellence. This commemorative golf tournament, scheduled to take place on October 30 at the prestigious Achimota Golf Club, serves as a centerpiece for the anniversary celebrations, blending the spirit of sportsmanship with a high-stakes philanthropic mission. At the heart of this initiative is an ambitious fundraising drive to establish a $2 million endowment fund dedicated to the school's long-term sustainability and infrastructure development. By bringing together influential alumni, corporate partners, and stakeholders, the MOBA Golf Club aims to leverage the networking power of the sport to secure the school's financial future. The endowment is expected to provide a consistent revenue stream to maintain and upgrade the institution's facilities, ensuring that Mfantsipim remains a premier center of learning for generations to come. The tournament is more than just a competitive sporting event; it is designed as a platform for community engagement and professional networking. Organizers emphasize that the gathering of 'Old Boys' and corporate leaders will reinforce the core values of discipline, integrity, and excellence that have defined the school for nearly 150 years. This event highlights the critical role that alumni networks play in the development of educational institutions in Ghana, showcasing a model of purposeful giving where leisure activities are channeled toward significant social impact. As the school approaches its 150-year milestone, the Sesquicentennial trophy represents a commitment to preserving the legacy of an institution that has produced some of the continent’s most distinguished leaders. Beyond the final putt on the green at Achimota, the success of this invitational will be measured by its contribution to the $2 million goal and its ability to strengthen the bond between the school and its global community of supporters. The event marks a significant step in the school's journey toward its 2026 sesquicentennial celebration, reinforcing the enduring spirit of 'The School'.

Prof. Kofi Agyekum Advocates for Merit-Based Authorship to Safeguard Academic Integrity
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Prof. Kofi Agyekum Advocates for Merit-Based Authorship to Safeguard Academic Integrity

Prof. Kofi Agyekum has sparked a critical conversation regarding academic integrity, asserting that authorship in research must be earned through merit rather than seniority. In a recent analysis of current academic practices, the seasoned scholar addressed the pervasive issue of "authorship entitlement," where senior faculty members or influential figures are often added to research papers without providing a substantial intellectual contribution. This practice, he argues, undermines the core values of higher education and compromises the credibility of scholarly output globally and within the Ghanaian academic landscape. The phenomenon creates significant ethical dilemmas, particularly for early-career researchers and junior faculty who are often the primary drivers of data collection and analysis. These individuals frequently find themselves in vulnerable positions, facing immense pressure to include senior colleagues as co-authors to avoid professional repercussions or to satisfy traditional power hierarchies. Agyekum highlights that this culture of "gift authorship" or "honorary authorship" not only masks the true contributions of the primary researchers but also distorts the metrics used to assess academic productivity and institutional excellence. Central to Agyekum’s argument is the necessary distinction between mentorship and authorship. While senior academics play a vital role in guiding and supporting junior researchers, he maintains that mentorship is a professional duty that does not automatically qualify one for a co-authorship slot. To address these systemic issues, he advocates for a radical shift in academic culture, calling for greater transparency and open communication regarding authorship expectations at the onset of any research project to ensure that all parties understand the criteria for inclusion. Ultimately, the protection of research integrity requires robust institutional policies that prioritize ethical standards over status. Prof. Agyekum urges academic institutions to implement clear, enforceable guidelines that define what constitutes a "substantial contribution," ensuring that all named authors are truly accountable for the published work. By moving toward a system where authorship is strictly merit-based, the academic community can better uphold the honesty and reliability of scholarly work, ensuring that credit is given where it is justly due.