Ghana’s government has prioritised foundational learning to improve education outcomes, according to Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu. This strategic shift aims to address the disconnect between increased school access and poor learning results across the nation.
Minister Iddrisu stated that literacy and numeracy are now central to the government’s education agenda. He made these remarks at the Ghana and Regional Foundational Learning Evidence and Implementation Support Day in Accra. The event was organised with partners including the World Bank, UNICEF, and the Jacobs Foundation.
Ghana has achieved significant progress in expanding access to education, with primary school enrolment nearing universal levels. However, this expansion has not consistently led to improved learning for all students. The Minister emphasised that many learners currently in school are not acquiring expected knowledge and skills.
Mr. Iddrisu stressed that education progress should not solely be measured by school construction or quality assurance mechanisms. Instead, the focus must be on whether pupils are gaining the competencies required at their respective levels. Foundational learning acts as a crucial gateway to success throughout a child's educational journey.
The Minister cited findings from the Auditor-General’s report on education and the Ghana Education Service. This report revealed that approximately 10,700 public basic schools across 13 regions lack adequate classroom facilities. These schools collectively serve over 3 million pupils.
Mr. Iddrisu described this situation as unacceptable, especially given Ghana’s constitutional commitment. The constitution mandates free, compulsory, and universal basic education for all citizens. He highlighted how such evidence must inform and shape government policy responses to documented gaps.
The government is responding to these challenges by revising the national curriculum for kindergarten through Primary Six. Although awaiting final Cabinet approval, the revised curriculum will place greater emphasis on ethical and moral values. It will also focus on digital and technical skills, including emerging technologies.
The new curriculum is expected to introduce subjects like robotics, coding, electronics, and artificial intelligence. These additions aim to better prepare students for the demands of a rapidly evolving global economy. This initiative directly links education reform to addressing youth unemployment and underemployment.
Mr. Iddrisu underscored that Ghana cannot effectively tackle its growing youth unemployment challenge without significant investment in education. Specifically, skills training and development are critical for equipping young people with relevant skills. These skills are essential for the changing labour market.
The Minister commended the World Bank and its Ghana Accountability for Learning Outcomes Project (GALOP). This project demonstrates how evidence can direct resources to areas of greatest need. GALOP has identified about 10,579 low-performing basic schools.
These schools receive additional resources and technical support to improve their performance. Mr. Iddrisu noted that education interventions must be tailored to specific school and community circumstances. This targeted approach ensures meaningful improvements in learning outcomes.
The government's commitment to foundational learning reflects a broader understanding of economic development. A skilled workforce is vital for sustained growth and competitiveness. This focus also aims to reduce the social costs associated with high youth unemployment.
Stakeholders, including researchers and education experts, are urged to provide candid assessments of the education sector. This includes evaluating infrastructure, assessment methods, quality assurance, and learning outcomes. Their input is crucial for effective policy formulation and resource allocation.
The revised curriculum and targeted interventions represent a significant step towards a more robust education system. These efforts aim to ensure that Ghana’s children not only access schooling but also acquire the foundational skills necessary for future success.