President Akufo-Addo Unveils Where Four New Universities Will be Located
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has announced plans to establish four new universities to address the increasing demand for tertiary education in Ghana. Apexnewsgh reports The announcement was made during his fifth honorary doctorate conferment from Valley View University, where he reiterated his administration’s commitment to enhancing the quality and accessibility of education. The four new universities will be located in Mampong, Akrodie, Bunso, and Kintampo, respectively. This expansion aims to increase tertiary enrollment to 40% by 2030, up from the current 18.84%. The President also highlighted efforts to achieve a balanced science-to-humanities enrollment ratio of 60:40, in line with the country’s educational strategic plan from 2019 to 2020. President Akufo-Addo outlined various interventions by his government aimed at improving education quality, including comprehensive teacher training programs, curriculum enhancements, and the integration of digital tools to enrich teaching and learning experiences. He emphasized his administration’s support for the growth of private tertiary institutions and urged citizens to reject any presidential aspirant who proposes reviewing the Free Senior High School program. This development marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s education sector, demonstrating the government’s commitment to expanding access to quality education and meeting the country’s growing demand for tertiary education. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
President Akufo-Addo Unveils Transformative Education Reforms
In a speech delivered at Valley View University, where he received an honorary doctorate degree, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo announced a series of groundbreaking initiatives aimed at revolutionizing Ghana’s education sector. Apexnewsgh reports The interventions focus on enhancing teacher training, curriculum reforms, and integrating digital tools to improve teaching and learning outcomes. The Free Senior High School (SHS) policy has significantly increased access to secondary education, while the “No Guarantor” policy under the Student Loan Trust Fund has boosted access to higher education for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. This has resulted in a remarkable increase in tertiary education enrolment, from 443,978 students in 2016/2017 to 711,695 in 2022/2023. To accommodate the growing number of tertiary students, the government plans to establish four new universities and expand facilities at existing institutions. The goal is to achieve a 40% Gross Tertiary Enrolment Ratio by 2030, up from the current 18.84%. The government has also prioritized research and book allowances for academia, disbursing GHS226 million as research allowance and GHS491 million as book allowance since 2020. These investments aim to foster a conducive environment for scholarly research and innovation, enriching the overall quality of education and advancing research excellence in Ghana. President Akufo-Addo expressed his desire to be remembered as the “Education President,” highlighting his commitment to transforming Ghana’s education sector. These reforms demonstrate the government’s dedication to ensuring every child receives a holistic and well-rounded education, positioning Ghana for a brighter future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
Ghana Government Pays Off Research and Book Allowances to End CETAG Strike
The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has announced that the government has paid all outstanding research and book allowances to members of the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG). Apexnewsgh reports This move aims to end the strike action by CETAG, which has affected educational activities in the institutions. According to Professor Ahmed Jinapor, Director-General of GTEC, a total of GHS 199 million has been paid to settle the allowances. Staff from all 46 Colleges of Education will be placed on the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) scheme to ensure their financial stability and contribution to teaching and learning. The payment of allowances was announced at the investiture of Professor Prince Boateng as the substantive Principal of Ada College of Education. Professor Boateng has pledged to bring a facelift to the school, including constructing a fence wall, providing entrepreneurial seminars, and introducing a water packaging plant to increase internally generated funds. The investiture ceremony coincided with the 15th congregation of the institution, where 248 students graduated. The Member of Parliament for Ada East Constituency, Honourable Comfort Doyoe Kudzo, donated GHS 20,000 and other logistics to support the college’s preparations for its 60th anniversary in 2025. The settlement of allowances is expected to enhance teaching and learning in the colleges, and staff can access the funds from Monday, July 15, 2024, through GIFMIS. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
Ghana School Feeding Programme Announces Implementation of Ghc 1.50 Increased Grant
The Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP) has announced that the proposed increase of GHS1.50 per beneficiary pupil will take effect starting with the payment for the Second Term of the 2023/2024 academic year. This adjustment, outlined in the government’s 2024 Budget and Financial Statement, aims to support the programme’s caterers across the 16 regions. According to a statement released on Friday, 5 July 2024, the GSFP National Secretariat is working closely with the sector Ministry to ensure the timely release of funds by the Controller and Accountant General’s Department. The funds will clear outstanding arrears at the new approved rate, providing relief to caterers who have been waiting for payment. The statement clarified that the recent payment for the first term was based on the previous grant of GHS1.20 per pupil, as captured in the 2023 budget. Any deviation from this approved rate for the first term would have been “extremely challenging.” The GSFP has urged caterers to exercise patience as they finalize the processes for the second term payment. This increase in grant is a welcome development for the programme, which aims to provide nutritious meals to beneficiary pupils across the country. The GSFP remains committed to supporting the education and well-being of Ghana’s children. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
School Feeding Caterer Laments Insufficient Funding, Urges Government to Increase Allocation
A caterer for the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP) Aunty Adjoa, has expressed her frustration over the inadequate funding allocated for school meals. The current amount of GH₵1.20 per child is insufficient and unfair, according to her. She highlighted that the situation is further exacerbated by taxes of GH₵0.30 pesewas deducted from the already meager funds, leaving caterers with even less money than promised. Speaking on Onua FM’s Yen Nsempa on July 2, 2024, Aunty Adjoa explained that the delays in payment and the subsequent taxes force caterers to take loans to sustain their services. She emphasized that the current allocation is a far cry from the actual cost of feeding a child, which is around GH₵5. The caterer appealed to the government to increase the funding to GH₵1.50 per child, as previously assured by the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection. She believes that the current amount is a disservice to both the country and the caterers. Aunty Adjoa’s concerns come after the government announced the payment of arrears for the first term of the 2023/2024 academic year, compensating caterers at a rate of GH₵1.20 per child per school day. While acknowledging the payment, the caterers are urging the government to expedite the promised increase and address the tax deductions that further strain their limited resources. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Alan Kyerematen Calls for Assessment of Free SHS Policy Implementation
Alan Kyerematen, the flagbearer for the Movement for Change, has expressed his views on the Free Senior High School (FSHS) policy, highlighting the need for a comprehensive assessment of its implementation. Apexnewsgh reports While acknowledging the policy’s progressive nature and potential to provide equal access to education for all, Mr. Kyerematen emphasized the importance of evaluating its management and operations. Mr.Kyerematen further identified key areas that require assessment, including: 1. Financial sustainability 2. Infrastructure requirements 3. Curriculum development 4. Teacher capacity and training 5. Transition from SHS to tertiary education and the workforce He stressed that a comprehensive review is necessary to ensure the policy’s success and longevity. Kyerematen’s call for assessment aims to identify areas for improvement and optimize the policy’s impact on Ghana’s education system. Mr. Alan Kyerematen has urged for a thorough evaluation of the Free SHS policy’s implementation to guarantee its sustainability and effectiveness in providing quality education for all Ghanaians. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Minority Threatens to Use Unflattering Language Against Majority Leader Over Free SHS Bill
The Minority in Parliament has issued an ultimatum to Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, threatening to use unflattering language against him if he fails to present the proposed bill on the Free Senior High School policy in the House today, Friday, June 28. Apexnewsgh reports The bill seeks to make the Free SHS intervention mandatory for future governments to sustain the policy. Despite the Majority Leader’s claims that the Minority opposes the bill, they have denied this and urged the government to address existing challenges in the education sector. Minority Chief Whip Governs Kwame Agbodza emphasized that the bill must be laid in the house on Friday for further action, warning that failure to do so will result in the use of unflattering language against the Majority Leader. The Majority Leader assured that the bill would be laid, accusing the Minority of opposing the Free SHS Bill. However, the Minority has indicated that they will thoroughly scrutinize the bill to ensure its longevity and effectiveness, pushing for a dedicated funding source for the policy. Ranking Member on the Education Committee of Parliament, Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, emphasized that the Minority will examine the bill to ensure its constitutionality and sustainability, demanding a dedicated funding source for the Free SHS policy. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Okyenhene Calls for Improved Conditions of Service for Teachers
Okyenhene Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin has urged the government to improve the conditions of service for teachers, particularly those in rural areas, to achieve equitable quality education in line with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4). Apexnewsgh reports This call comes amid recent industrial actions by pre-tertiary teacher unions over unpaid allowances and poor working conditions. The Okyenhene emphasized that providing infrastructure and laptops to schools is ineffective without quality teachers to utilize these resources. He advocates for special incentives for teachers posted to rural areas, improved accommodations, and better conditions of service to reduce the high attrition rate in the teaching profession. He praised the Free SHS program and encouraged parents to take advantage of it to provide secondary education for their children. Okyenhene also cautioned against teenage pregnancy, irresponsible parenting, and land and chieftaincy disputes, which hinder development. The Benkum Divisional durbar was held in honor of Okyenhene’s 25th-anniversary celebration on the accession to the Ofori Panin stool, with the theme “25 Years of Sustainable Leadership and Service to Humanity.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Breaking News: CETAG declares Indefinite Strike Over …
The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has declared an indefinite strike, effective Friday, June 14, 2024. Apexnewsgh reports The leadership of CETAG has directed all members to withdraw teaching and related services until their grievances are addressed. The strike is a response to the government’s delay in implementing the National Labour Commission’s (NLC) Arbitral Award Orders and negotiated service conditions. CETAG urges all members to comply with the declaration and withdraw services across all 46 public colleges of education until the orders are fully implemented and payments made to members. The association seeks to pressure the government to address their concerns and honor the agreements reached through the Compulsory Arbitration Awards. The indefinite strike aims to bring attention to the unresolved issues and push for a swift resolution to ensure the fair treatment of CETAG members. Find below the statement Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
New Senior High School Curriculum Aims to Instill National Values and Foster Pride
The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) has unveiled a new Senior High School curriculum designed to instill national values and promote pride among Ghana’s youth. Apexnewsgh reports The comprehensive curriculum, which comprises 37 subjects, aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, values, attitudes, and character qualities necessary for lifelong learning, employability, and a fulfilling adult life. According to Reginald George Quartey, Acting Director of Curriculum Development at NaCCA, the new curriculum focuses on providing students with multiple pathways for university program selection. “We are shifting from rigid program-based study to subject selections, allowing students to choose subjects that align with their interests and strengths, regardless of their desired program,” he explained. The curriculum also prioritizes the socio-emotional and behavioral domains, enabling students to tailor their studies according to their interests and strengths. This flexible approach eliminates the rigid structures of previous programs, allowing students to explore different fields without facing significant challenges. Professor Jonathan Fletcher, Founding Dean of the School of Education and Leadership at the University of Ghana commended the curriculum for its inclusive pedagogy. While the new curriculum has been praised for its innovative approach, concerns have been raised about the disparities in school infrastructure across the country, which may hinder effective implementation. Despite these challenges, the NaCCA remains committed to ensuring that the curriculum promotes national values and fosters pride among Ghana’s youth. Meanwhile Prof. Avea Nsoh the Executive Director of TERRE who was part of the engagement expressed satisfaction with the categorization of courses by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA). Speaking after a briefing from NaCCA officials, Prof. Nsoh praised the efforts that have gone into the categorization process, noting that a significant amount of work has been done to reach this milestone. While commending NaCCA’s efforts, Prof. Nsoh also suggested that more room should be given to incorporate Ghana’s culture and heritage into the school curriculum. He believes that this would enable children to better understand and learn about their cultural traditions. By doing so, the curriculum would be more inclusive and reflective of Ghana’s rich cultural heritage. Prof. Nsoh’s suggestion is aimed at promoting cultural awareness and preservation among the younger generation. By incorporating cultural education into the curriculum, Ghanaian children would be able to appreciate and value their cultural heritage, leading to a more culturally aware and proud society. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.