Education

Minister of Education Pledges Commitment to Enhancing Learning Outcomes and Equitable Access to Education

In a move aimed at improving the education sector in Ghana, Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, has pledged to collaborate with the Principals of Colleges of Education in Ghana (PRINCOF) to enhance learning outcomes and ensure equitable access to education across the country.

During a courtesy call by the PRINCOF executive in Accra, Mr. Iddrisu emphasized the government’s commitment to providing equal educational opportunities for every Ghanaian. He stressed, “The government will work with you to give meaning to the constitutional aspiration of equal educational opportunities for every Ghanaian.”

Recognizing the challenges within the country’s education system, Mr. Iddrisu assured stakeholders that the government was open to discussions and professional advice on how best to enhance the system. One key area under review is the licensing exam for teachers, which Mr. Iddrisu proposed could be incorporated into the curriculum of teacher training institutions like the University of Cape Coast. This initiative aims to streamline the process and ensure more effective teacher preparation.

The Minister also outlined plans to introduce national standardized tests in all public schools for primary two, four, six, and the second year of Junior High School. The initiative is aimed at improving the examination readiness of students by focusing on their emotional, psychological, and academic preparedness. This approach is part of broader efforts to provide a more supportive and effective learning environment for students throughout the country.

Additionally, Mr. Iddrisu commended PRINCOF and other stakeholders for their ongoing efforts to address the conditions of service for the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG). He assured that the government would expedite the resolution of remaining CETAG issues to foster industrial harmony and create a peaceful academic environment.

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On the matter of infrastructure, Mr. Iddrisu revealed plans to “uncap” the GETFund (Ghana Education Trust Fund) to ensure more significant allocations are made for educational infrastructure, though he acknowledged that these resources may still fall short of fully addressing the sector’s needs. The government is also reviewing the national budget to better address these concerns, including the provision of vehicles for operational duties at the colleges.

In another significant announcement, the Minister proposed transitioning from the current student allowance system to an enhanced student loan scheme. This new structure would aim to provide students with more comprehensive financial support to aid them during their studies.

Looking ahead, Mr. Iddrisu highlighted the upcoming Education Stakeholder Conference, which will provide a platform for various sectors within the education space to present their recommendations on improving the sector.

Professor Samuel Awinkene Atintono, President of PRINCOF, took the opportunity to congratulate Mr. Iddrisu on his appointment and expressed the body’s commitment to working together with the government to enhance the Colleges of Education across the country. He also urged the Minister to expedite the resolution of the outstanding issues with CETAG, emphasizing the need to prevent further disruptions to academic activities.

The Minister’s comments reflect a forward-looking approach to addressing the challenges facing Ghana’s education system, with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and improved access to quality education for all students.

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