Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Ghana’s Minister for Education, has commended the significant advancements made in the country’s education sector under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, particularly since 2017. He made these remarks during the inauguration of 80 educational facilities nationwide, marking a critical milestone in Ghana’s education transformation.
In his address, Dr. Adutwum emphasized the government’s commitment to modernizing educational infrastructure and fostering academic excellence across the country. He stressed that these initiatives are essential to creating equitable and effective learning environments, noting that improving infrastructure is central to the NPP’s vision for national development.
Modernization of Educational Infrastructure
Dr. Adutwum highlighted that the government recognizes the importance of providing 21st-century educational facilities to meet the needs of modern students. He explained, “We cannot educate 21st-century students in 19th-century buildings and expect 21st-century outcomes.” The minister pointed to the excitement of children benefiting from the newly inaugurated facilities as clear evidence of the positive impact of these changes.
Comparing Ghana’s Progress with South Korea
Dr. Adutwum also drew an insightful parallel between Ghana’s educational journey and the transformation of South Korea. Reflecting on South Korea’s rapid economic and educational growth, he pointed out that in 1960, Ghana’s per capita income was higher than South Korea’s. However, South Korea made the bold decision to expand secondary education and invest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in the 1970s. Dr. Adutwum stated, “We are 50 years behind, but at least we have begun,” underscoring the government’s efforts to kickstart Ghana’s own STEM transformation.
A Step Towards Revamping Ghana’s Education System
The commissioning of these 80 new schools is a pivotal step in the NPP government’s broader efforts to revamp the education system in Ghana. Dr. Adutwum expressed confidence that this ongoing transformation, particularly with a focus on STEM education, will pave the way for future economic growth and academic success in the country.
