Eighty educational projects have been commissioned in various regions of the country.
The projects, all constructed by the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo-led government, would create an enabling environment for effective teaching and learning and better outcomes in the nation’s education sector.
President Akufo-Addo performing the commissioning of the projects.
The President, Nana Addo Akufo-Addo led the commissioning of the projects across the country on Thursday as he commissioned a renovated St. Barnabas Basic School at Osu in Accra.
Other dignitaries in the various regions, Municipalities, Metropolitan, and District Assemblies also commissioned projects in their areas simultaneously, some of which were shown live on Television stations nationwide.
Inauguration
President Akufo-Addo interacting with some students
Speaking at the St. Barnabas Basic School at Osu, Nana Akufo-Addo expressed joy at the completion of the projects, which would go a long way to promoting effective teaching and learning in the beneficiary schools.
He explained that the huge investment made by his administration would go a long way towards the development of education in the country.
The President urged all beneficiaries of the projects to make good use of them and to merit the huge investment made for their benefit.
Huge benefits
Front view of the school blocks
The Education Minister, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, speaking at the media coordination centre set up for the purpose of the inauguration of the projects said the commissioning of the projects would pave the way for their use so that it would enhance the acquisition of skills and knowledge by students and pupils.
The Osei Yaw Adutwun explaining things to President Akufo-Addo
He explained that 80 projects inaugurated were among the hundreds of projects constructed nationwide by the Nana Akufo-Addo government since 2017.
“To ensure the proper maintenance of the educational projects in the country, the Ministry has started employing Maintenance Managers whose responsibilities would be for the proper maintenance of educational infrastructure in the various institutions they would be posted to”. Dr Adutwum said.
Locations of projects
Notable among the schools were the Kpasenkpe STEM SHS in the West Mamprusi district of the North East region, Awaso STEM, Shama D/A Basic School, Atiwa Applied Technology Institute, Sawua STEM Academy, Accra STEM Academy and Kumagyemere D/A Basic.
Some others are the Akyem Manso Roman Catholic JHs, Holy Child College of Education Demonstration School, Breme R/C Primary, and APCE Demonstration School among others.
By:A news desk Report
The Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has urged Ghanaians to do everything possible to protect gains made by the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo-led government.
This, he said could be done by voting massively for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and all its candidates across the country during the upcoming December 7th general elections.
Dr Bawumia made the call in an address read for him by the Chief of Staff, Madam Akosua Frema Osei Opare, during the launch of National Education Week 2024 in Accra.
Annual event
Dr.Osei Yaw Adutwun
The week-long annual event, which had the theme “The Education Transformation Agenda; evidence from 2017,” attracted educational experts from across the globe to discuss and share ideas on the state of education in the country, share best practices, and present papers, among other things.
Dr.Osei Yaw Adutwun speaking at the event
The Vice President indicated that the huge investment made so far by the NPP government since 2017 had brought about a massive development at various levels of education in the country.
He enumerated the various interventions and policies including the Free Senior High (FSHS) Policy were among the things Ghanaians should use their votes to protect from being cancelled by any other government.
Welfare of Ghanaians
Dr Bawumia cautioned Ghanaians to think critically about whom they should vote for and not let any propaganda or lairs deceive them into voting for politicians who might only be interested in winning elections and not in the welfare of the ordinary Ghanaian.
Commendations
The Education Minister, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, on his part, praised the President for giving him the opportunity to serve the people of Ghana during his first and second term of office in government.
He also commended the Chief of Staff for what he termed “Motherly love shown to him when he was a Deputy Minister and also as a Minister for Education.
The Education Minister who is also the Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe pledged to continue work hard towards the development of the nation’s education sector and all other sectors of the economy.
The Minority in Parliament has demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of the directors of Lamens Investment Africa Limited and called for sanctions against the Board and Management of the National Food Buffer Stock Company. This follows allegations that expired and repackaged rice was distributed to Senior High Schools across the country.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, speaking on behalf of the Minority, accused the two institutions of colluding to distribute 22,000 bags of expired rice to schools. Ablakwa also noted that Lamens Investment Africa Limited had been flagged by the Auditor-General in 2021 for supplying unwholesome food items to schools, but no punitive action had been taken.
Addressing a press conference on Monday, November 18, Ablakwa stated, “The NDC Caucus also demands the immediate arrest and prosecution of the directors of Lamens Investment Africa Limited. The board and management of the National Food Buffer Stock Company must be sanctioned for allowing their storage facility to be used for this atrocious act and operating unregistered storage facilities across the country.”
He emphasized the health risks posed by the distribution of expired rice, saying, “Such recklessness which sacrifices the health of our students for corrupt transactions must not go unpunished.”The Minority also called for a nationwide health screening for Senior High School students who may have consumed the allegedly contaminated rice.
Ablakwa urged the Ministry of Education to act swiftly, stating, “Immediately after this scandal broke, public health officials announced a major screening exercise because the doctors have told us about the medium to long-term implications of this insect-infested, highly acidic and contaminated rice. But here we are, they are all playing ostriches. The Ministry of Education should open its doors for this screening to be done.”
The call highlights the Minority’s concerns over public health and accountability, urging prompt action to prevent further harm.Source:dailymailgh.com
Thirty two exceptional teachers in the Assin South district have been awarded for their outstanding contributions towards the development of education
in the area.
The ultimate prize, a salon car, was awarded to Paul Afoakwah Okyere as the best teacher in the Assin South district.
Rev.Ntim Fordjour making the presentation
The first runner-up received a motorbike, while the second runner-up was given a set of furniture.
Additional awards included laptops, refrigerators, televisions, washing machines, plaques, certificates, and sports jerseys.
The Assin South Teachers Awards which was held at Nyankomasi Ahenkro in the Central Region were sponsored by the Deputy Minister of Education and Member of Parliament for Assin South, John Ntim Fordjour, with support from UNESCO, Ghana Education Service Occupational Pension Scheme
(GESOPS), Right to Play, and Sabre Education.
The ceremony, attended by dignitaries, including the Central Regional Director of Education, Emmanuel Essuman, the national president Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Rev. Isaac Owusu and the Board Chairman of the National Teaching Council, Dr. Anis Haffer.
Also present were Nananom, religious leaders, headteachers, teachers, non-teaching staff, students, parents, and community members.
Mr Fordjour urged teachers to embrace postings to rural areas.
He emphasized the vital role educators play in nurturing the potential of children in underserved communities.
The awards was on the theme “Inspiring Greatness: Celebrating the Assin South Finest Teachers”
According to him, rural areas often faced a shortage of experienced educators because they lacked essential resources and amenities, which led many teachers to decline postings there.
However, he stressed that it was crucial for teachers to accept posting in these underserved communities because their guidance and mentorship could unlock the potential of young learners who might otherwise miss out on quality education in such areas.
Mr Fordjour praised teachers as agents of transformation, underscoring their critical role in shaping the future of the nation.
He highlighted that teachers had the unique ability to identify and nurture raw talent, helping to mould students into valuable assets for the country.
“Through their dedication and commitment, teachers pave the way for future professionals, including professors, doctors, lawyers, engineers, scientists, and journalists, who contribute significantly to national development” he stressed.
He also acknowledged the essential role of non-teaching staff, noting that their support is indispensable in creating a conducive learning environment.
He commended their hard work and dedication, which, he said, “complement the efforts of educators in guiding and shaping students’ academic journeys, thereby ensuring a holistic approach to education”
The National President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Rev. Isaac Owusu, on his part urged teachers to uphold high moral standards and adhere strictly to the code of conduct governing the teaching profession.
Rev. Owusu expressed concern about the rising instances of misconduct among some teachers, noting that such behavior undermines the integrity of the profession.
He cited cases where teachers arrived at school intoxicated and instances where inappropriate relationships with students led to teenage pregnancies.
He emphasized that such actions not only tarnish the image of educators but also contravene the ethical guidelines set by the teaching profession.
He commended teachers who have demonstrated dedication and excellence in their roles, nurturing the next generation of leaders.
He congratulated the award recipients for their hard work and urged all teachers to strive for excellence, emphasizing that their efforts could be recognized in future awards.
On his part, The Central Regional Director of Education, Mr. Emmanuel Essuman underscored the significant role teachers play in shaping the future of children.
He described teaching as a noble profession that goes beyond imparting knowledge to igniting curiosity and guiding students on a journey of discovery.
He stated, “A teacher’s influence extends far beyond the walls of the classroom; it reaches into the hearts and minds of students, shaping who they will become and how they engage with the world.”
Mr. Essuman praised the dedication of educators who often go above and beyond to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.
He appealed to teachers to exhibit exemplary moral character, reminding them that they serve aEducators as Agents of Transformation
The District Chief Executive (DCE) of Assin South, Hon. Felicia Ntrakwah Amissah, expressed her delight at the exceptional organization of this year’s awards ceremony. She noted that despite being the third edition, it stood out as the most remarkable so far.
She praised the initiative as a significant motivation for educators in the district and urged them to continue their hard work to further improve the quality of education.
The district’s Best Teacher, Mr. Paul Afoakwah Okyere, expressed his gratitude and surprise upon receiving the top honor.
He remarked, “This award serves as motivation for all teachers and is a testament to the good work we are doing.”
He encouraged his colleagues to maintain high standards of behavior, noting that educators were not only imparting knowledge but also shaping the character, values, and attitudes of their students.
He thanked the MP and the sponsors for their contributions, expressing appreciation to his students for challenging him, which he said pushes him to learn and grow continually.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to continue working towards enhancing education in the district.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will, on Thursday, November 21, 2024, lead the commissioning of over 80 educational projects across all 16 regions of the country.
The initiative seeks to enhance access to quality education by providing modern facilities tailored to meet the diverse needs of Ghanaian students.
According to a statement released by the Ministry of Education, the commissioning will be a nationwide event involving simultaneous ceremonies at district and regional levels. Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum will join the President in officiating the events, which will be broadcast live on major television networks and social media platforms to ensure nationwide participation.
The projects span a range of educational needs, from basic schools to senior high schools and technical institutions. They include STEM-focused schools, E-blocks, and kindergarten facilities aimed at supporting early childhood education.
Notable among the projects is the Kpasenkpe Model STEM SHS in the West Mamprusi District, the Accra STEM Academy in La-Nkwantanang-Madina, and the Awaso Model STEM SHS in Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai. Basic education facilities, such as a 12-unit classroom block at Salem D/A Basic in Atwima Mponua and two-unit kindergarten blocks in communities like Fremasi DA Primary in Assin South, are also part of the initiative.
“These projects reflect the government’s commitment to improving the quality of education and ensuring that every Ghanaian child has access to a conducive learning environment,” the Ministry’s statement read.
The Ashanti Region stands out with several projects, including the Bosomtwe Model STEM JHS, which boasts a four-story, 11-unit classroom block, and the Wesley Girls Demonstration School in Kumasi Metro, which will gain a six-unit classroom block with ancillary facilities.
In the Northern Region, the Sagnarigu Tamale Business School will unveil an 18-unit classroom block to meet increasing demand. Other regions, such as Volta, will benefit from upgraded facilities like the six-unit classroom block at Kodzobi Ando Basic School in Adaklu, complete with modern sanitation facilities.
The initiative also includes Technical and Vocational Education (TVET) with projects like the Anyinam TVET-Applied Technical and Fashion school and the Akomadan TVET-Applied Technical school, aimed at equipping students with practical skills for the job market.
This, the Ministry of Education invites the general public to witness the milestone event, either in person at the commissioning sites or through live broadcasts.
“We encourage all Ghanaians to join this celebration of progress in education,” the statement added.
Minister for Works and Housing,Mr. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah has revealed details of a 2012 education strategy document from the NDC that reveals their long-standing opposition to the Free SHS policy.
In a recent podcast, part of his eight-part series on why Ghanaians should vote for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming elections, Mr. Oppong Nkrumah dissected the NDC’s 2012 Education Strategic Plan, revealing what he believes is the opposition party’s unwillingness to make SHS free for all Ghanaians.
“I want to show you the NDC’s blueprint for financing education. It’s called the Education Strategic Plan that was published in February 2012. It was under the signature of Betty Moulde-Iddrisu, who was Minister for Education at the time.
On page 29, where they talk about senior high school education, this is the NDC’s real belief.
Kojo Oppong Nkrumah
“According to the NDC, most of the students who attend public senior secondary education come from private schools and therefore they are not poor. These are not my words. These are the NDC’s words. And they go on to say that they should not receive subsidies,” he said.
Mr. Oppong Nkrumah said the document implies that the NDC does not view public SHS students as in need of full government support. He said rather than offering free SHS for all, the NDC’s plan focuses on what it calls “means testing.” This approach, he argued, would separate students into groups, identifying only certain students as “needy” and eligible for subsidies.
“The NDC’s approach is to only assist those from what they term ‘hard-to-reach areas’ and to use means testing to decide who deserves support,” he noted.
In contrast, he pointed out that the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Free SHS policy provides every Ghanaian child, regardless of socioeconomic background, with free access to secondary education. “Our philosophy is simple: education should uplift all. Free SHS has changed lives, removed financial barriers, and allowed families across Ghana to send their children to school,” he emphasized. “The NPP is committed to providing quality, free education to every Ghanaian child without discrimination.”
In contrast, he highlighted that the NPP’s Free SHS policy provides free access to secondary education for every Ghanaian child, regardless of socioeconomic background. He explained that the NPP’s philosophy centers on making education accessible to all, helping families across Ghana overcome financial barriers and ensuring equal opportunities for quality education without discrimination.
He urged Ghanaians to reflect on the records of both parties as they head into the next election, emphasizing that “the NDC’s stance is clear: they do not believe in Free SHS for all Ghanaians.” He reiterated that Dr. Bawumia and the NPP remain steadfast in their commitment to making quality education accessible for every child in Ghana.Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman/peacefmonline.com
The Omanhene of Prang Traditional Area in the Pru West District of the Bono East Region, Nana Kwadwo Nyarko 111, has reiterated the need for the provision of infrastructural projects in the educational sector in order to improve quality education in the country.
He said it is only through education that Ghana could achieve its socio-economic agenda.
Nana Kwadwo Nyarko was speaking during this year’s celebration of Nkyifie Yam Festival at Prang, the capital of Pru West District.
He indicated that the introduction of the Free SHS programme by the Akufo-Addo administration had increased enrolment in schools, especially Prang Senior High School (SHS).
According to him, Prang SHS is among the best schools in the region and Ghana as a whole but lacks infrastructural projects.
Nana Kwadwo Nyarko noted that the school needed a new administration block to serve the administrative purposes of the school, adding that the school is also in dire need of a bus to run the activities of the school.
According to him, the boys’ dormitory of the school has become congested and there is an urgent need to address it since it does not augur well for teaching and learning.
Nana Kwadwo Nyarko III,Pranghene
On the stalled girls’ dormitory, Nana Kwadwo Nyarko appealed to the government, through the District Chief Executive, to address it.
He thanked the Akufo-Addo administration for giving Prang its fair share of the national cake.
He mentioned the tarring of the Prang town, Regional Urban Roads office at Prang, IDIF, Prang water project, Agenda 111 hospital, among others.
He reminded the President that though he appreciates his efforts in improving Prang, the contractors working on the Agenda 111 had abandoned the site due to financial constraints according to investigations.
Nana Kwadwo Nyarko, therefore, humbly appealed to the President to release funds so that the contractors can return to the site and hopefully complete it before this year.
He used the occasion to advise all Ghanaians to desist from any acts that could mar the beauty and success of this year’s general election.
He said election is about whom you think can do the job, not about fighting.
Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, says the rising cost of living and lack of respect for the rule of law have ignited the desire for Ghanaians to vote for the NDC in this year’s election.
Speaking at the “Worship with the Clergy” event in Kumasi, the former President said the mismanagement of the economy by the NPP government has seen rising food inflation, debt restructuring, depreciation of the cedi, as well as the return of dumsor resulting from indebtedness in the energy sector.
“For some time now, there have been rampant power outages resulting from accumulated debt by this current government. There is dumsor, but they don’t want to issue a timetable. Apart from the energy sector, food is expensive, and it is one of the highest in Africa according to the World Bank. Many Ghanaians are tired of the hardship and are calling for the return of the NDC, which has a good track record,” he said.
Mr. Mahama waved into the brouhaha between Parliament and the Supreme Court, reiterating the need for the President to exhibit leadership by involving the clergy in prevailing on two parties to address any challenge.
He called for a review of Ghana’s constitution to prevent frequent visits to the Supreme Court for interpretation.
“What is happening in parliament is something that can easily be solved by leadership. If the president would call both parties, I mean parliament and the Supreme Court and involve the clergy, this issue would be solved easily. I have always stated that all controversies in our constitution should be looked at and necessary reviews made to prevent frequent visits to the Supreme Court for interpretation. If we do that, our democracy will be strengthened,” he indicated.
John Mahama revealed the second coming of his government will ban mining in forest reserves and water bodies and ensure responsible mining.
“One of the biggest problems facing this country is Galamsey. Our lands, water bodies, and forests are destroyed because of this illegal mining. NDC will put a ban on mining in river bodies and forests and ensure responsible mining that will ensure the integrity of our environment,” he stated.
John Mahama called on the clergy and Ghanaians to help ensure a peaceful election. He believes nothing can replace the democracy and peace enjoyed in this country.
Although he expressed dissatisfaction about the declining trend of Ghana’s democracy, he believes a joint effort from the clergy and Ghanaians as a whole will restore confidence in our democracy.
“Ghana’s democracy was rated low, and the youth in this country don’t believe in democracy anymore and wish for a military government. We should not go back to the military era, where people ruled with guns. We must protect our democracy at all costs,” Mr Mahama said.
Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum has advocated strong support for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the ideal candidate to advance the initiatives and achievements of President Akufo-Addo’s administration.
Dr. Adutwum praised Dr. Bawumia’s dedication to education and economic development, emphasizing that his leadership would sustain and build upon transformative policies that have positively impacted Ghanaians.
He made these remarks during an engagement in Accra on Sunday, on behalf of Dr. Bawumia’s interaction with parents and students to discuss issues related to the education sector.
“Bawumia has demonstrated a deep understanding of our challenges and opportunities,” Adutwum stated. “His vision aligns perfectly with the progress we have made under President Akufo-Addo.”
The Minister pointed to several key achievements of the current government, including the Free Senior High School policy and various infrastructure projects, which have significantly improved access to education.
He believes that Dr Bawumia’s experience and dedication will be crucial in building on these successes and addressing ongoing challenges.
The National Service Authority (NSA) says it will no longer allow national service personnel posted to the teaching field to just go to the classrooms without shaping their teaching skills.
Some scenes from the event
This follows an observation by the Authority that most national service personnel without teaching background fail to deliver to satisfaction when sent to the classroom.
The NSA has, therefore, partnered with the National Teaching Council and the Ministry of Education to train national service personnel who have been posted to senior high schools to support teaching and learning.
Mr.Osei Assibey Antwi in a group photograph with dignitaries
“The training will take the service personnel through methods of teaching and shape their teaching skills, so that they can contribute efficiently to the discharge of their duties,” the Executive Director of the NSA, Mr. Osei Assibey Antwi, told the media during the training of over 3,000 national service personnel in Kumasi.
The NSA says its focus is on deployment for employment to reduce graduate unemployment in the country.
“It’s not only about the knowledge that is being bequeathed to them, but there is an opportunity for them to do a distance programme and earn a diploma in education which can allow national service personnel to continue teaching after service.
Mr Osei Assibey Antwi Executive director NSA
“We now don’t want to deploy people to where they’ve not studied,” the NSA boss pointed out.
Mr Assibey Antwi, therefore, urged national service personnel to accept postings, especially to where their services are needed the most.Source: 3News.com
