The Institute for Education Studies (IFEST) has called for increased government investment in basic education. This urgent appeal follows persistent weaknesses in English and mathematics among Ghanaian students. These issues signal deeper problems within the nation's foundational learning system.
Peter Anti, IFEST's Executive Director, stated that simple year-to-year comparisons of examination results are inadequate. He emphasized the need for a more thorough assessment of Ghana's education system. Anti's analysis shows consistent instability in English and mathematics performance, suggesting systemic rather than isolated issues.
This educational challenge directly impacts Ghana's long-term economic prospects. A workforce lacking strong foundational literacy and numeracy skills struggles to adapt to modern industries. This can deter foreign investment and limit local business growth. The call for intervention aligns with broader concerns about human capital development in emerging economies.
Mr. Anti, speaking on the Asaase Breakfast Show, argued that policymakers must examine long-term trends. He stressed the importance of individual school performance data to guide effective interventions. "Consistently English and Mathematics have shown a level of instability," Anti explained, highlighting the critical nature of these core subjects.
The implications for Ghana's economy are significant. A poorly educated populace reduces productivity and innovation. It also increases the cost of training for employers. This situation could exacerbate youth unemployment and widen income inequality. Decision-makers must address these educational gaps to secure a competitive future.
IFEST's analysis of 177 senior high schools over 13 years revealed stark disparities. About 20% of these schools never achieved a pass rate above 20%. Conversely, other schools consistently recorded pass rates exceeding 50%. This data underscores the need for targeted, rather than broad, national educational strategies.
Mr. Anti rejected the idea that tougher examination conditions alone explain changes in West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) performance. He noted that performance improved in some subjects while declining or remaining unstable in others. This pattern demands a deeper look into underlying causes, not just exam rigor.
The education specialist stressed that interventions must begin at the basic education level. This is where learners develop essential literacy and numeracy skills. These skills are crucial for later academic success and entry into the workforce. Strengthening this foundation is paramount for national development.
Anti criticized the poor condition of many basic schools across Ghana. He pointed to inadequate classrooms, teaching materials, and staffing as major factors affecting learning outcomes. An Auditor-General's report, cited by Anti, identified thousands of schools with insufficient infrastructure. This affects millions of learners nationwide.
He called for deliberate, long-term government policies to strengthen basic education. Anti argued against focusing solely on high-profile, short-term initiatives. "If you fix these things, then the foundation will now be strong to now push up the upper part," he affirmed, emphasizing a bottom-up approach.
IFEST also proposed a multiple-pathway education system. This system would allow students who do not meet traditional university entry requirements to pursue structured apprenticeships or skills programmes. These students could then return to formal education through short courses. Such pathways would reduce the number of young people whose educational progress is cut short by exam results, providing more opportunities for economic participation.
This comprehensive approach aims to build a more resilient and skilled workforce. It would better prepare Ghanaian youth for diverse career opportunities. Addressing these foundational educational issues is vital for Ghana's sustained economic growth and social stability. The government's response to IFEST's call will be closely watched by parents, educators, and economists alike.