GES Orders Temporary Closure of Yendi Schools to Honour Late Dagbon Overlord
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced the temporary closure of all public and private schools within the Yendi Municipality to allow students and staff to observe the funeral rites of the late Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, Ndan Yaa-Naa Abukari II. In a statement released on Tuesday, July 14, the GES said the directive took effect from midday Monday, July 13, and will remain in force until Thursday, July 16. Full academic activities are expected to resume on Friday, July 17. The Service explained that the decision followed consultations with the Northern Regional Director of Education, the Director-General of GES, the Yendi Municipal Chief Executive, and the Gbewaa Palace. The closure aims to honour the late King and show respect for the cultural heritage and traditions of the Dagbon people during the mourning period. GES instructed all students and staff within the municipality to observe the mourning, expressing confidence that parents, school authorities, and stakeholders would cooperate with the directive. Yendi Municipal Chief Executive Muniru Sogri confirmed the decision to Citi News, explaining that the government approved the closure to enable residents, including the school community, to participate in activities marking the passing of the Dagbon Overlord. “Following the demise of the King of Dagbon, the Overlord, Yaa-Naa Abukari II, a decision was taken that to mourn the death of the King, public schools and also private schools have to close down,” he said. Meanwhile, the Dagbon Traditional Council has announced that the third-day Islamic prayers for the late Yaa-Naa Abukari II will be held at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi on Thursday, July 16, at 10:00 a.m. The Council has invited the public to attend and offer prayers for the late Dagbon Overlord. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Engage the Military to Build Pavilions: Prof. David Millar’s Solution to Eradicate Schools Under Trees
At the last session of the recent launch of the PEARL (Prosperity through Enterprise, Agriculture, Resilience and Livelihoods) Framework, a bold 10-year plan set to transform Ghana’s regions through agriculture, enterprise, and responsible mining, an urgent and innovative proposal stirred the room. Professor David Millar, President of the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies, who also doubles as the Chairman of the launch, presented an important suggestion to the President’s Representative, Mr. Augustus Obuadum Tanoh (Presidential Adviser on the 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development), and the Deputy Education Minister, Hon. Clement Apaak, with a message both practical and visionary. With a voice marked by concern, and hope, Prof. Millar painted a troubling picture: nearly 5,000 basic schools across Ghana are still operating under trees or in crumbling structures. This crisis, he explained, strikes hardest in rural and underserved communities, where children are forced to learn in punishing conditions with no protection from the elements, scant furniture, and constant disruptions. But Prof. Millar brought more than a lament, he brought a solution. “If we engage the military, specifically the engineering regiments who have already proven their capability building highways, to construct simple but durable pavilions, we could remove all schools from under trees in record time,” he declared. The military, he argued, can rapidly build thousands of such structures, far faster and more cost-effectively than traditional contractors. “Furniture and other amenities can come later. The priority must be getting children into proper shelters.” Prof. Millar reminded his audience of historical precedent: “Years ago, under Rawlings and the NDC, pavilions were built for junior secondary schools, simple one-block structures that are now used as classrooms. Originally designed as open carpentry workshops, these pavilions have stood the test of time.” His vision is methodical and inclusive: “We should start from the north, where the need is greatest, and gradually eliminate all schools under trees as we move southwards. The military’s field engineers regiment is both cheaper and faster. There are about eight field units, these could be deployed across Upper East, Upper West, and beyond. Since we already know where these schools are, soldiers could build pavilions one after another, moving steadily toward the coast.” Prof. Millar’s proposal is clear: only by harnessing the speed and efficiency of the military can Ghana end the era of schools under trees, a solution that would be a landmark achievement for government, the military, and, above all, for Ghana’s children. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GTEC Warns Public Against Unrecognised Tertiary Institutions and Certificates
The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has issued a strong caution to the public, urging prospective students, employers, and stakeholders to avoid enrolling in or accepting certificates from 80 tertiary institutions that are currently not recognised by the Commission due to quality assurance concerns. In an official statement released on Thursday, June 25, 2026, GTEC emphasized the importance of due diligence when considering academic programmes or qualifications from these institutions. “The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) wishes to inform the public that the institutions listed below are currently not recognised by the Commission due to various quality assurance concerns. Accordingly, the public is advised to exercise due diligence about any certificates issued by these institutions,” the statement read. The unrecognised institutions span several countries, including Ghana, the United States, India, Switzerland, and more. Among the list are names such as Universidad Azteca (Mexico), Indian School of Management and Studies (India), Breyer State Theology University (USA), Debest College of Science, Arts and Business (Ghana), and Atlantic International University (USA), among others. GTEC’s warning highlights the growing issue of unaccredited institutions offering tertiary education and issuing certificates that may not be valid for employment or further studies. The Commission reiterated its commitment to upholding educational standards and protecting the interests of students and employers in Ghana. Prospective students are encouraged to consult the official GTEC website or contact the Commission directly to verify the accreditation status of any tertiary institution before enrolling. Employers are also advised to scrutinize academic certificates to ensure they are issued by recognised and accredited institutions. The full list of unrecognised institutions is available through GTEC and includes 80 entities across several countries, underscoring the need for vigilance in the higher education sector. No. Institution Country 1 Universidad Azteca Mexico 2 Indian School of Management and Studies India 3 Breyer State Theology University USA 4 Debest College of Science, Arts and Business Ghana 5 Osiri University USA 6 Atlantic International University USA 7 Faith University Seminary (FUS) Ghana 8 Christian University College Monrovia Liberia 9 Rhema Bible Training College (RBTC) USA 10 Universidad Empresarial de Costa Rica Costa Rica 11 Selinus University of Sciences and Literature Italy 12 Crown University International Chartered USA 13 Monarch Business School Switzerland 14 City University Cambodia 15 Kesmond International University USA 16 Washington University of Barbados Barbados 17 London Academy of Technology and Management UK 18 IICSE University USA 19 Doxa Open University Ghana 20 Brainae University USA 21 University of Haana Germany 22 Christian Leadership University USA 23 International Institute of Church Management Inc. USA 24 Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Training School Ghana 25 Louisiana Baptist University & Seminary USA 26 Tech Global University Andorra 27 International Christian University Nigeria 28 LIGS University Hawaii, USA 29 Swiss Management Centre University Switzerland 30 Quest International University Ghana 31 Isles International University Ireland 32 Kingsnow University USA 33 New Life Bible College and Seminary USA 34 East Bridge University France 35 Texila American University Guyana 36 Vision International University USA 37 Keisie International University USA 38 Dublin Metropolitan University UK/Cyprus 39 Logos University USA 40 University of America USA 41 Kazian School of Management India 42 University of Northwest USA 43 Akamai University Hawaii, USA 44 Trinity Graduate School of Apologetics and Theology (TGSAT) India 45 American Bible University USA 46 California Creek University USA 47 Delta International University USA 48 National Institute of Business Management (NIBM) India 49 Southern California International University USA 50 Quetzalcoatl University of Veracruz Mexico 51 Swiss International Management Academy Switzerland 52 IBM Institute of Management India 53 Dunster Business School Switzerland 54 World Academy for Research and Development (WARD) UK 55 American Management University USA 56 All Nations Church International University Texas, USA 57 Freedom University and Theological Seminary USA 58 Global Theological University USA 59 Jorasome International University Zambia 60 Kingdom Living Bible Institute Kumasi, Ghana 61 Global Professional College Effiduase, Ghana 62 London School of Management and Technology (LSMT) UK 63 European Institute of Management and Technology Switzerland 64 Volta University College Ghana & Nigeria 65 United Nigeria University College Nigeria 66 Open International University Nigeria 67 Marquis Open University Italy 68 Alliance International University Zambia 69 All Saints American University Liberia 70 Colombia International University USA 71 American Management University USA 72 University of the Nations Hawaii, USA 73 Brookside University Barbados 74 Pacific International University USA 75 American University of Sovereign Nations USA 76 Brussels Capital University Türkiye 77 Richmond Open University Nigeria 78 Freie und Private Universität Herisa Switzerland 79 OAA Consulting Limited Kumasi, Ghana 80 Competency School of Business Administration (COSBA) Kumasi, Ghana Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Education Ministry Urges Vigilance as Drug Networks Infiltrate Ghanaian Schools
The Ministry of Education has issued a strong call to action for teachers and school authorities nationwide to intensify monitoring of students in response to alarming signs that drug networks are making inroads into Ghana’s basic and secondary schools. The warning comes on the heels of intelligence gathered by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), which revealed that drug-related activities are increasingly shifting from the streets into educational environments. Recent enforcement operations have uncovered a rise in the use of opioids and tramadol among young people, sparking concern among educators and policymakers. Speaking to the media on June 25, Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, described the trend as part of a broader drug abuse crisis confronting both Ghana and the world. He emphasized the urgent need for intervention and outlined ongoing collaboration between the Ministry, the Ghana Education Service (GES), and the Ghana Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Service to strengthen surveillance, prevention, and support systems in schools. “Teachers are at the frontline of this fight, they are the first to notice changes in students’ behaviour and can help prevent drug-related activities from gaining ground in our schools,” Dr. Apaak explained. He called on teachers and school administrators to be proactive in searching students’ bags and personal belongings as part of efforts to maintain discipline and ensure campus safety. “We have empowered school managers to conduct thorough checks of luggage, trunks, and chop boxes brought into dormitories,” he added, noting that these measures are a continuation of government efforts to restore discipline in the education sector. Dr. Apaak stressed that tackling the rising threat of drug abuse and trafficking in schools will require coordinated action from teachers, parents, school leaders, and security agencies alike. The Ministry’s latest appeal highlights the urgent need for vigilance to protect students and maintain safe learning environments across the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Education Minister Warns of Strain on GETFund as Nearly Half of 2026 Budget Allocated to Free SHS and Student Feeding
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has sounded a note of caution regarding the sustainability of the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), revealing that almost half of its 2026 budget has been committed to supporting the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme, with a significant share going toward student feeding. Speaking before Parliament on Thursday, June 18, Minister Iddrisu disclosed that 42 percent of GETFund’s locally generated revenue is now earmarked for Free SHS, a trend he believes could jeopardize the Fund’s ability to fulfill its wider educational responsibilities. He explained that the increasing reliance on GETFund resources, particularly for school feeding, risks crowding out investments in crucial areas such as educational infrastructure, basic education, and other strategic initiatives. Minister Iddrisu urged lawmakers to reconsider the current financing framework. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that GETFund remains focused on its core mandate: strengthening foundational learning, especially in literacy and numeracy. According to him, these foundational skills are essential for improving long-term educational outcomes across Ghana. He advocated for a review of the existing funding arrangement, arguing that this would help preserve resources for infrastructure expansion and key educational programmes, while still supporting efforts to improve learning at the basic education level. The minister’s remarks came during a wider parliamentary debate on education financing and the sustainability of major government interventions. During the discussion, Abena Osei-Asare, the Member of Parliament for Atiwa East, echoed these concerns. She questioned the decision to channel such a large share of GETFund resources into student feeding, arguing that this expenditure falls outside the Fund’s primary mandate. Osei-Asare warned that dedicating so much of the Fund’s revenue to feeding programmes could reduce the amount available for core investments like school infrastructure. The debate highlighted growing concerns among policymakers about how to best balance the competing funding needs of the Free SHS programme, infrastructure development, and foundational education initiatives. Established to drive educational progress across Ghana, the GETFund has traditionally financed projects such as school buildings, scholarships, and programmes aimed at expanding access to quality education. The current debate signals a renewed focus on ensuring that the Fund can continue to meet these crucial objectives in the years ahead. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Secures $300 Million World Bank Support to Transform Secondary Education
In what looks like a major boost for Ghana’s educational reform agenda, the Ministry of Education has announced that the World Bank has approved a US$300 million financing package to support the implementation of the Transformative Secondary Education for Access, Results and Relevance for Jobs (STARR-J) Project. Unveiled in a statement on June 16, 2026, the ministry revealed that the STARR-J Project aims to strengthen the country’s secondary education system by widening access, enhancing quality and relevance, and tackling infrastructure challenges that have emerged with the expansion of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy. A key focus of the new project is the government’s pledge to end the double-track system in senior high schools nationwide, a system introduced to accommodate increased enrolment under the Free SHS programme. Through targeted investments in school infrastructure, improved learning environments, and greater operational efficiency, the government expects that by 2027, no secondary school in Ghana will operate under the double-track arrangement. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu described the World Bank’s approval as a transformative investment in Ghana’s youth and future workforce. “This initiative will expand learning opportunities, improve school conditions, better align secondary education with the needs of the labour market, and address the infrastructure deficit linked to Free SHS,” he said. The Ministry of Education extended its gratitude to World Bank Country Director Robert Taliercio O’Brien, the World Bank education team, and the Ministry of Finance, led by Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, for their instrumental support in securing the funding. According to the ministry, the STARR-J Project underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to providing equitable access to quality secondary education, and to preparing students with the knowledge and skills they need for a rapidly changing world. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Institutional Suppliers Picket Ministry of Education Over Unpaid Free SHS Debts
The National Association of Institutional Suppliers (NAIS) staged a peaceful picket at the Ministry of Education, demanding urgent payment of debts owed to its members under the government’s Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme. According to the association, the government owes suppliers approximately GH¢50 million for uniforms, house dresses, and school clothing delivered to senior high schools across the country since 2023. The mounting arrears have left many suppliers in a precarious financial situation. NAIS National President, Emmanuel Ayivor, expressed frustration over the prolonged delay in payments, noting that many members relied on bank loans to fulfil government contracts. As cash flow worsens, some suppliers are now struggling to keep their businesses afloat and retain their workers. “Most of us are working with loans and currently the banks are taking over our properties because we are unable to pay,” Ayivor said during the picket. The association is demanding the settlement of two years’ arrears and has called on the government to release all outstanding funds without further delay. NAIS emphasized that the picketing was meant to highlight the hardship faced by suppliers and to press for immediate action from authorities. The demonstration underscores the growing financial strain on businesses providing essential goods and services to the education sector, as suppliers await a government response to their demands. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Nabdam MP Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane Commissions Construction of 1No.2 Unit KG Block at Nkusiezie
Excitement filled the air in Nkusiezie as community members, chiefs, and local leaders gathered to witness a significant milestone in the area’s educational journey. The Nabdam Member of Parliament, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, stood before the gathering to commission the construction of a new two-unit kindergarten block, a facility complete with an office, storeroom, five-seater KVIP toilets, and two-unit gender-friendly urinals. Dr. Nawaane, in his address, highlighted the far-reaching impact of the project, linking it to former President Mahama’s educational policy. “This project falls in line with President Mahama’s vision to increase the number of pupils attending kindergarten. We all know the importance of early childhood education; it is during these formative years that children develop essential skills. We teach them how to speak, write, read, sing, and even instruct them in our local language, nurturing their cognitive and social abilities.” He emphasized that research shows children who benefit from quality kindergarten education tend to excel as they move through primary, secondary, and even tertiary levels. “President Mahama is committed to kindergarten education, and that is why we’ve allocated about 10 percent of the common fund towards educational projects such as this.” Dr. Nawaane extended his gratitude to the assembly for championing the policy, and heaped praise on the contractor for delivering quality work. “You can see the good work that has been done,” he noted, inviting the young contractor to stand and be recognized by the crowd. “I also want to thank the chief and people of the community for embracing this project. Community acceptance and cooperation are what make successful implementation possible.” He concluded by assuring the community that maintenance of the facility would be a priority, so that generations of children would benefit from a safe and welcoming learning environment. The event marked not just the commissioning of a building, but the start of brighter educational prospects for the youngest members of Nkusiezie. Meanwhile, the contractor of the project, Mr. Jacob Azumah of Winmailes Company Ltd, expressed satisfaction with the support he received from the assembly and community members. According to him, he was able to meet the construction deadline because of the community’s support and cooperation. The event was honoured by opinion leaders, assembly officials led by the DCE, and GES officials, all of whom commended the initiative and pledged their continued commitment to the advancement of education in Nkusiezie. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ngamegbulam Takes Anti-Drug Campaign to Zorkor Tarongo Primary School
In a determined effort to combat youth drug and alcohol abuse, Mr. Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen, Editor-in-Chief of ApexNewsGH, has extended his advocacy to the Zorkor Tarongo Primary School in the Bongo District of Ghana’s Upper East Region. Mr. Ngamegbulam’s visit forms part of his broader mission to reach young people early and steer them away from the dangers of substance abuse. The award-winning journalist is no stranger to this cause. In 2025, he produced a powerful documentary titled “Swallowed by Drugs,” which highlighted the harsh realities and struggles faced by youths ensnared by addiction. Drawing from his research and experience, he addressed students, teachers, community leaders, and parents at Zorkor Tarongo Primary School, raising awareness about the escalating problem of drug and alcohol abuse among young people in the area. During the engagement, Mr. Ngamegbulam urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children, emphasizing the rising trend of youth involvement in substance abuse within the Bongo District. He warned that early exposure to drugs such as tramadol, cannabis, Red Red, and other substances could derail the ambitions of children, jeopardizing their dreams of becoming doctors, nurses, journalists, or teachers. He appealed to students to look up to successful role models within their community, pointing out that these individuals achieved their positions through hard work and discipline, not through substance abuse. “If they had indulged in drugs or alcohol, they wouldn’t be where they are today,” he asserted. The sensitization event was well received by both the school authority and the community leadership. Naba Abelizire Ayeta II, the Chief of the area, expressed gratitude for Mr. Ngamegbulam’s initiative, describing the campaign as essential for every parent in Tarongo. Hon. Akelinyana Peter, Assemblyman for Tarongo/Atiabiise Electoral Area, also lauded Mr. Ngamegbulam as a dedicated youth ambassador who is using his media platform to change lives. He urged parents to heed his advice to guide their children towards responsible adulthood. The Headmistress of Zorkor Tarongo Primary School, Madam Azeko Mary Ngoomah, echoed these sentiments, noting the importance of regular educational outreach on drug and alcohol abuse, which she said is becoming increasingly prevalent in schools. Mr. Ngamegbulam’s visit underscores the urgent need for collective community action to protect the dreams and futures of young people from the devastating impact of substance abuse. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Zorkor Tarongo D/A KG and Primary School—A Legacy in Need of Revival
Once upon a time, in the heart of the Bongo District, stood Zorkor Tarongo D/A KG and Primary School, a proud institution established in 1956. As the oldest school in the district, it has long served as the foundation for many prominent personalities, not just within the region, but across all of Ghana. Over the decades, its classrooms have nurtured future leaders, respected professionals, and notable figures such as regional ministers, MPs, and District Chief Executives, all of whom once walked its humble corridors. Yet, despite this rich legacy, the school’s current state tells a different story. The passage of time has not been kind. Years of neglect have left the buildings dilapidated. The infrastructure is crumbling, and the proud walls that once echoed with the laughter and dreams of children now bear the scars of time and relentless rainstorms. Roofs have been torn away, and doors and windows that were once broken have only recently been replaced. Furniture is scarce, and the needs remain many. During an exclusive engagement with Apexnewsgh, Hon. Akelinyana Peter Akugre, the Tarongo/Atiabiise Electoral Area assembly member, voiced his deep concern. He expressed his gratitude for the efforts of the Bongo MP and the Naidvar Trust NGO, whose support has helped replace some doors and windows. “I am aware that many dignitaries passed through this school. Today, they are successful members of society, including the Upper East Regional Minister. I appeal to Hon. Donatus Akamugri, Professor Atintono, Awinsira Wilbert Nam-katoti, and other notable alumni, including a former DCE, to come to the aid of Zorkor Tarongo Primary School.” He continued, emphasizing that as the oldest school in the Bongo District, much has broken down and urgently needs replacement. “Rainstorms have damaged the roof, but with the help of our MP and Naidvar Trust, we have made some progress. Korea Food for the Hungry International (KFHI) also contributed by providing a borehole for the school. Still, the school remains neglected by the very people it once shaped.” Hon. Akugre made a heartfelt plea to former students, including Gaaga Akayeri Azitariga, Bongo’s first MP under the Fourth Republic, and many others. “Please, visit your old school and see its current condition. If you can help us renovate it, I would be deeply grateful. I know you will listen, as you always have.” And so, the story of Zorkor Tarongo D/A KG and Primary School continues, a legacy waiting to be revived, calling on its sons and daughters to breathe new life into its aging walls. Source: Apexnewsgh.com