GES Launches State-of-the-Art Smart Classrooms at Opoku Ware Senior High School
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has taken a significant step towards enhancing digital learning in the country with the commissioning of a dedicated block of smart classrooms at Opoku Ware Senior High School in Kumasi, Ashanti Region. Apexnewsgh reports The new facility is part of the Ghana Smart Classrooms Project, aimed at providing students with the skills and tools needed to thrive in a digital world. The smart classrooms are equipped with interactive smart screens, tablets for every student, reliable internet connectivity, solar-powered charging cabinets, and modern ergonomic furniture. These facilities will enable teachers to deliver content via the KATON360 Learning Management System, a robust digital platform that supports interactive teaching, real-time assessments, and personalized learning journeys. The Director-General of the GES, Professor Ernest Kofi Davis, emphasized the government’s commitment to continuing the implementation of good policies and programs initiated by its predecessors. He reiterated that the GES will ensure that every student gains access to tablets and related accessories to aid knowledge acquisition. The President of the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS), Rev. Father Stephen Owusu Sekyere, praised the initiative as a bold decision by the government to provide world-class education to Ghanaian children. However, he urged the government to extend the project to every senior high school in the country, regardless of location or infrastructure. The Ghana Smart Classrooms Project aims to convert existing facilities in public senior high schools into smart environments for digital learning while building new structures for schools in some areas. The project also includes providing free computer tablets to students and laptops to teachers and staff to facilitate research, teaching, and learning. The event, themed “Smart Schools: The Future of Digital Education,” was attended by students and heads of senior high schools in the region. It marks a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to harness technology to improve education outcomes in Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane Donates 770 Educational Materials to Nabdam BECE Students
The Member of Parliament for the Nabdam Constituency, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, has donated 770 writing materials to students preparing to write the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). Apexnewsgh report The donation was made on his behalf by the Nabdam District Chief Executive, Francis Tobig Yenwoma. The DCE explained that the donation aims to provide students with the necessary tools to excel in their exams without engaging in malpractice. He encouraged the students to make good use of the materials and produce excellent results, urging them not to disappoint their parents and teachers. The DCE noted that Dr. Nawaane has been making this donation to students in the Nabdam Constituency for some time now, demonstrating his commitment to supporting education in the area. He thanked the District Director of Education and her staff for their efforts in creating a conducive learning environment for the students. The DCE urged the students to justify the efforts of their teachers by producing excellent results and making good choices for their future. He wished them well luck and luck in their exams. wishing them to produce excellent results. Meanwhile, the Nabdam District Director of Ghana Education Service, Ms. MacDarlene Wompakeah, expressed her satisfaction with the donation of educational materials made by the Nabdam MP, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane. The District Director described the gesture as “huge enough to show that you have parents who care.” She encouraged the students to make good use of the materials and produce excellent results, urging them to make their parents, teachers, and the MP proud. She further used the opportunity to appeal to the MP and the District Chief Executive to assist with some pressing issues in the district. She requested that something be done about the Pelungu KG, where students learn in inadequate conditions, and also urged that the ongoing construction of a classroom block at Congo KG be speeded up to accommodate over 100 students. Ms. Wompakeah thanked the MP for his kindness and expressed her gratitude on behalf of the Nabdam Education Directorate. She prayed that God would bless the MP and provide him with the resources to continue supporting education in the district. However, the party chairman and other party executives were all present during the donation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Government Expands Free SHS Policy to Private Schools
The government has announced plans to expand the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy to cover private schools, starting from the next academic year. This move aims to increase capacity and gradually phase out the double-track system. The announcement was made during the release of revised guidelines for the selection of schools for candidates preparing to write the upcoming Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). Under the new guidelines, candidates will now be allowed to select seven schools, up from the previous six choices. The selection process will run from May 27 to June 6. Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Clement Appak, explained that the inclusion of private schools in the FSHS policy is part of the government’s campaign promise. He stated that meetings have been held with private schools, and they are eager to participate in the program. Dr. Appak believes that this move will help bring an end to the double-track system and increase access to quality education for more students. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NLC Orders University Staff Unions to Call Off Strike
The National Labour Commission (NLC) has directed three university staff unions to immediately call off their strike action, citing violations of Ghana’s Labour Act. Apexnewsgh reports The unions, which include the Senior Staff Association – Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), the Technical University Administrators Association of Ghana (TUAAG), and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff Association of Ghana (FUSSAG), had embarked on an indefinite strike over alleged non-implementation of agreed conditions of service. In a letter dated May 21, 2025, the NLC invoked Section 139(1)(d) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), ordering the unions to end their industrial action. The directive follows a notice of intention to strike served on the Commission on May 12. Despite the NLC’s intervention and directive to stay the strike, the unions defied the order and proceeded with industrial action. The NLC cited a press release by the unions, also dated May 21, announcing the indefinite strike in protest of what they described as the government’s continued breach of the agreement. The agreement between the unions and the government was signed on November 12, 2024. As a result of the unions’ defiance, the NLC has declined to hear the matter further, invoking Section 161 of the Labour Act. This section states that a matter cannot be entertained if parties are engaged in illegal strike actions. The NLC has advised the unions to call off the strike and formally notify the Commission before any further steps can be taken. The NLC’s directive is clear: the unions must call off the strike and comply with the Labour Act. The Commission’s decision highlights the importance of adhering to the law and negotiating in good faith. The unions must now decide whether to comply with the NLC’s order and resume negotiations or continue with their industrial action. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Public Universities Ground to a Halt: Unions Declare Indefinite Strike
A nationwide indefinite strike has been declared by three key unions representing senior staff and administrators in Ghana’s public universities. Apexnewsgh reports The Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), the Technical University Administrators Association of Ghana (TUAAG), and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff Association of Ghana (FUSSAG) announced the joint industrial action at a press conference in Accra. The unions cited the government’s failure to honour a binding agreement signed six months ago as the reason for their decision. According to Mr. George Ansong, National Chairman of SSA-UoG, the strike is a last-resort measure against what the unions describe as a “systemic culture of broken promises.” Despite numerous attempts at dialogue and goodwill engagements, the government has consistently ignored the agreement, leading to the unions’ decision to take drastic action. The unions argue that the strike is not an act of hostility but a principled stand to defend their rights and uphold the sanctity of agreements freely entered into by both parties. Mr. Ansong emphasized that the unions have exhausted all available avenues for resolution and will not return to work until the government fulfils its end of the agreement. The strike is expected to cause significant disruption to the academic calendar and general operations of public universities. However, the unions maintain that the responsibility lies squarely with the government for failing to honour its commitments. The unions are calling on civil society, the media, and the general public to support their cause and pressure the government to act in good faith. The unions remain resolute in their determination to see the agreement implemented. Until the government fulfils its obligations, the strike will remain in full effect. The fate of Ghana’s public universities hangs in the balance, and only time will tell how this standoff will be resolved. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
MP Samuel Okudzeto-Ablakwa Donates Laptops to Support Teachers in Rural North Tongu
Samuel Okudzeto-Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has once again shown his commitment to teaching. Recently, he donated laptops to 36 teachers newly posted to various rural communities within the constituency. “This gesture is our way of showing appreciation to teachers who accept postings to rural communities in my beloved constituency,” Mr. Ablakwa proudly said. We want them to feel welcomed and valued.” His initiative is designed not just to provide technology but also to motivate educators who often face challenges in underserved areas. The laptop donation is part of a broader strategy to improve teaching and learning outcomes across North Tongu. Mr. Ablakwa has ambitious plans to roll out further support for educators, including continuous professional development programs, scholarship schemes, and annual awards to recognize excellence in teaching. “These policies are designed to help retain teachers, motivate them, and ultimately improve the quality of education delivered to our children,” he emphasized, highlighting his commitment to fostering a conducive learning environment. With these initiatives, Mr. Ablakwa aims to elevate the educational landscape in his constituency and ensure that every child has access to quality education. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
UTAG-UG Demands Resignation of Auditor-General Over Controversial Payroll Audit Report
The University of Ghana Chapter of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG-UG) has called for the immediate resignation of Auditor-General Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu in light of a contentious payroll audit report that has raised serious concerns within the academic community. The demand follows the release of a special payroll verification audit from the Auditor-General’s office, which asserts that the University of Ghana overstated employee compensation by GH¢59.2 million between 2022 and 2024. However, UTAG-UG has vehemently disputed these findings, labeling the report as misleading and inaccurate. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, May 20, UTAG-UG General Secretary Jerry Joe Harrison criticized the audit as damaging to the university’s reputation and that of its staff. He emphasized that the report was released without allowing the university an opportunity to respond or clarify any discrepancies highlighted in the findings. Harrison accused the Auditor-General of ethical misconduct, stating that the way the audit was compiled disqualifies him from continuing in office. “It appears to us that the audit service is more interested in appearing to be working rather than doing the right thing, and in so doing, they ignore ethical standards that guide their profession,” he declared. Moreover, he pointed out that the University of Ghana was not given a chance to review or comment on the audit results before they were made public, which he deemed unfair and unethical. “The University of Ghana maintains that the audit report was not shared with them for them to make comments and clarify any discrepancies before this was made public. This is a serious breach of the ethics required of the audit service and the profession,” Harrison asserted. Declaring that the situation represents a failure of professional standards, UTAG-UG has called for decisive action. “For the Auditor-General to sit in his office and preside over such an institution that disregards ethical standard practice, we are hereby calling for the resignation of the Auditor-General, or we will petition the President for him to be removed,” Harrison concluded, underscoring the gravity of the issue as the university community rallies behind their call for accountability. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Empowering Young Minds: Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre’s Gift to BECE Candidates
In a heartwarming display of kindness and commitment to education, Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre has donated 1,500 mathematical sets to the Ghana Education Service (GES) in Zebilla. Apexnewsgh reports This generous gesture is part of a five-year journey to support and encourage young students, particularly those preparing for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). The mathematical sets will be distributed to all BECE candidates across the 59 basic schools in the district. This thoughtful donation serves as a reminder to the students that they are not alone in their academic pursuits. Mr. Julius Abanga Asigri, Deputy Director for Planning and Statistics at GES-Zebilla, graciously received the sets on behalf of the Service, ensuring they reach every candidate. As the students prepare to begin their exams on June 9, 2025, Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre’s message is clear: “Step into the exam room with confidence and courage, knowing we are always with you, always cheering you on.” This kind gesture is a testament to the power of community and support in helping young people achieve their goals. The donation has brought together the Honorable District Chief Executive, Mr. James Ayamweogo, the GES-Zebilla family, friends, and comrades, all of whom have shown their support for the students. As Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre aptly puts it, “Let us continue to uplift and stand with our younger siblings as they build the future they desire.” With the mathematical sets in hand, the BECE candidates are ready to take on their exams with confidence. Nelson Ndebah Ndebugre wishes them all the best, saying, “Thank you, and best of luck to all BECE candidates.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghanaian Scholars Abroad Plan Protest Over Unpaid Stipends and Allowances
The Coalition of Ghanaian Scholars Abroad, made up of beneficiaries of the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat studying in various countries, has announced a planned demonstration on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Apexnewsgh reports The protest aims to address the government’s failure to provide long-overdue stipends and allowances, which have left many students in dire financial straits. According to the students, many of whom are recipients of the Scholarship Secretariat’s foreign scholarships, they have gone without their monthly stipends for an alarming 14 months. Additionally, book and health allowances have not been paid for the past two academic years, exacerbating their financial difficulties. In a joint statement released by representatives from across Europe, North America, and Asia, the students expressed their frustrations, accusing the government of neglecting its responsibility to support their education. Despite numerous appeals and efforts to engage diplomatically with authorities, they feel abandoned and unsupported. The Coalition emphasized that their demonstration is a peaceful assembly intended to raise awareness about their prolonged hardships and to demand accountability from the Ghanaian government regarding the disbursement of funds. “This protest is not a political move. It is a desperate cry for survival. Many of us are stranded, unable to pay rent, buy food, or access healthcare. We feel forgotten by the country we are representing,” the statement declared. As the planned demonstration approaches, the Coalition is hopeful that their collective voice will prompt action and bring attention to the urgent situation facing Ghanaian students abroad. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Pupil-Teacher jailed 10 years for …
Mr Edward Ekuadzi, a 36-year-old pupil teacher in Aflao in the Ketu South Municipality of the Volta region, has been sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment with hard labour for engaging in incestuous relations with his 17-year-old daughter. He appeared before the Denu Circuit Court on 2nd May 2025, where he pleaded guilty simpliciter to the charge. As presented by the prosecution, the complainant, Madam Christy Kwau, is a trader and the biological mother of the victim (name withheld), a 17-year-old Senior High School student. Both the complainant and the accused are divorced, and the victim had lived with the convict since infancy. On 22nd April 2025 at approximately 10:00 am, the victim went to the complainant at Sepenukope and refused to return to the accused. Upon questioning, the victim disclosed that in March 2025 at about 4:20 am, and again on 17th April 2025 at 4:30 am, the accused had forcibly had sexual intercourse with her in their living room. He had also threatened her against disclosing the act, warning that she would “risk dying” if she did.The complainant subsequently reported the case to the Aflao Police Station, and a medical form was issued for the victim to undergo examination. The accused (now convicted) was arrested and interrogated on 30th April 2025, during which he confessed to having sexual intercourse with the victim on three occasions. The convict was a teacher at a private basic school in the Ketu South Municipality.