Experts Demand Urgent Reform of Ghana's Education System to Prioritise Financial Literacy and Practical Skills

Prominent Ghanaian experts and industry leaders are calling for a fundamental shift in the nation's educational curriculum, moving away from a traditional focus on academic certificates toward a model that prioritises lifelong financial literacy and practical employability skills. Economist Professor Godfred Alufar Bokpin and Derrick Akomprah, CEO of Elite B & C Company, have both highlighted the growing disconnect between current educational outputs and the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy. Their collective insights suggest that without a coordinated national strategy to equip students with financial and soft skills, the next generation remains vulnerable to fraud and unemployment.

Speaking at the JoyNews-Hubtel Dialogue, Professor Bokpin advocated for the integration of financial literacy into the national curriculum starting as early as kindergarten. He criticised Ghana’s current approach to financial education as reactive and fragmented, arguing that sporadic public education campaigns are insufficient to combat the rise of financial fraud in the digital space. Bokpin emphasized that financial markets are "not for the ignorant" and urged regulators and educational institutions to collaborate on a unified, proactive strategy. He proposed that financial education must be delivered through the digital platforms where citizens already engage, ensuring that individuals are prepared to manage risks before they enter the financial system.

Supplementing this call for reform, Derrick Akomprah addressed students at the Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU) 2026 Career Fair, where he urged a shift in focus from degrees to demonstrable skills. Under the theme "Creating Careers in the Digital Age," Akomprah noted that in a competitive global market, traits such as attitude, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication often outweigh academic qualifications. He encouraged students to view emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), as essential tools for innovation rather than threats to employment. The fair provided practical workshops, including CV reviews and mock interviews, to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and workplace expectations.

These calls for reform underscore a critical need for Ghana's education system to adapt to the realities of the 21st century. By embedding financial literacy in early childhood education and fostering high-level soft skills at the tertiary level, stakeholders believe Ghana can produce a more resilient and versatile workforce. The consensus among these experts is that a successful transition to a digital economy requires not just technological access, but a well-coordinated educational framework that empowers citizens to navigate both financial markets and professional landscapes with confidence and integrity.