Savelugu SHS Teacher Crowned Ghana’s Most Outstanding Educator at 2025 Ghana Teacher Prize
Education

Savelugu SHS Teacher Crowned Ghana’s Most Outstanding Educator at 2025 Ghana Teacher Prize

Mr. Richard W. Tiimob, a dedicated teacher at Savelugu Senior High School in the Northern Region, has been celebrated as Ghana’s Most Outstanding Teacher at the 2025 Ghana Teacher Prize ceremony, which took place at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in Ho. This highly esteemed honour, which includes a three-bedroom house, is a testament to Mr. Tiimob’s unwavering commitment to education and his exceptional efforts to transform the lives of his students through teaching. Taking the stage to accept his award, Mr. Tiimob expressed heartfelt gratitude to God, his family, students, colleagues, and the leadership of his school, crediting their collective encouragement and support for his success. He described teaching as “more than a profession,  a calling to inspire, mentor, and transform lives.” He noted that his achievement reflected the combined efforts of everyone involved in the pursuit of quality education in Ghana. Mr. Tiimob used the moment to urge teachers across the nation to continue innovating in their classrooms, to elevate their craft, and to inspire every learner. He envisioned a Ghana shaped by ambition, excellence, and purpose,  one where educators play a central role in national development. The Ghana Teacher Prize, organized each year by the National Teaching Council, stands as a celebration of excellence in teaching. The award honours educators who demonstrate leadership, innovation, and a lasting impact on shaping the country’s future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

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UTAG Steps Up Pressure on Government to End Galamsey
Education, Mining

UTAG Steps Up Pressure on Government to End Galamsey

The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has sounded a clarion call for urgent action against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, signaling a new phase in the nation’s efforts to protect its environment. The Association is preparing to roll out a series of initiatives designed to hold the government accountable and intensify the fight against the ongoing destruction of Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves. Dr. Ivy Fiador, the newly elected President of UTAG, shared the Association’s concerns with the media, expressing deep worry about the consequences of unchecked galamsey operations. “Water is an essential thing, and that is what we drink. Now it may look like it is far away from us. In a few years, we are likely to be battling more diseases than we normally would. Already, as a nation, we are financially challenged,” she cautioned. Dr. Fiador acknowledged that while illegal mining may appear to provide employment opportunities, the long-term costs far outweigh the short-term benefits. “When you juxtapose the cost implication when you want to restore degraded lands or water, then you realise that the net present value is negative in the long run,” she noted, urging the country to look beyond immediate gains and consider the lasting impact on public health and the economy. UTAG’s upcoming measures aim to put sustained pressure on the government to act decisively, reflecting the Association’s belief that the future of Ghana’s environment and its people depends on immediate intervention. “Unchecked galamsey operations threaten not only public health but also the nation’s economic stability,” Dr. Fiador emphasized. As UTAG prepares to unveil its action plan, the national conversation on illegal mining continues to gather momentum. President John Dramani Mahama is set to meet with over 60 civil society organizations on Friday, October 3, to deliberate on strategies to end galamsey and secure Ghana’s environmental future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

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Eduwatch Condemns the Alleged Exciting Breast Pressing Assistant Headmaster of KNUST SHS
Education

Eduwatch Condemns the Alleged Exciting Breast Pressing Assistant Headmaster of KNUST SHS

Education Think Tank, Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch), has strongly condemned the reported sexual misconduct involving the Assistant Headmaster of KNUST Senior High School and a female student. In a statement released on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, Eduwatch described the alleged act as reprehensible, emphasizing that it undermines the sanctity of the school environment and endangers the safety and dignity of learners, especially girls. “Schools must remain safe spaces where children are protected, nurtured, and empowered to learn without fear of abuse,” the statement asserted. Eduwatch commended the Ghana Education Service (GES) for acting swiftly to remove the officer from office and bar him from the school while investigations proceed. The think tank also urged the GES Headquarters and the Ashanti Regional Directorate to conduct a thorough, transparent probe—not only into the specific incident but also into the broader nature of relationships between male staff and female students at the institution. The group called on the National Teaching Council to permanently revoke the teaching licence of the accused if found culpable, arguing that his continued presence in the profession poses a significant risk to the safety of girls. Eduwatch reiterated its commitment to promoting accountability in Ghana’s education system to curb sexual violence in schools. It also urged the Ministry of Education and the GES to strengthen the enforcement of safeguarding policies, ensuring all learners have access to a safe, supportive environment. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

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GES Removes KNUST SHS Assistant Headmaster Over Viral Video, Launches Investigation
Education

GES Removes KNUST SHS Assistant Headmaster Over Viral Video, Launches Investigation

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has taken swift action to remove Mr. Charles Akwasi Aidoo, Assistant Headmaster (Academic) of KNUST Senior High School, following the circulation of a viral video allegedly showing him in a compromised situation with a female student. In an official statement released today, the management of GES announced that Mr. Aidoo has been relieved of his duties and barred from accessing the school while a thorough investigation is underway. “In line with our commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the teaching profession and ensuring the safety and welfare of students under our care, Mr. Aidoo has already been removed from office and prohibited from going to the school while thorough investigations are being carried out,” the statement read. GES assured the public, stakeholders, parents, and students that due process would be followed, and that any disciplinary action would adhere strictly to the Service’s code of conduct. The Service reaffirmed its dedication to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and child protection in all schools. “We strongly condemn any acts that compromise the safety, dignity, and well-being of students,” the statement emphasized Source: Apexnewsgh.com

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GES Dismisses Rumours of Paid Senior High School Placements, Reaffirms Free and Fair Process
Education

GES Dismisses Rumours of Paid Senior High School Placements, Reaffirms Free and Fair Process

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has firmly refuted rumours circulating on social media that parents and guardians are being charged fees for placing their children in Senior High Schools. In an official statement signed by Head of Public Relations Daniel Feny, the GES clarified that the placement process is “absolutely free of charge” and warned parents against making payments to any individual or group for school placement services. The GES emphasised that all placements into Senior High Schools and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions are strictly merit-based and conducted through official channels. Parents and guardians were advised to use only the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) portal, established Resolution Centres, and the official communication platforms of the GES for all placement-related matters. The statement also encouraged the public to report any attempts to solicit money for school placement to the GES or the nearest police station without delay. Reaffirming its commitment to fairness and transparency, the GES assured that no qualified candidate would be disadvantaged and reiterated that the placement process remains free for everyone. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

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GTEC Restores UCC’s Accreditation After Vice Chancellor Dispute
Education

GTEC Restores UCC’s Accreditation After Vice Chancellor Dispute

After weeks of uncertainty and tension, the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has restored the accreditation status of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), ending a standoff that had put the university’s future in question. The dispute began when GTEC ordered UCC’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Johnson Boampong, to proceed on retirement, arguing that he had exceeded the mandatory retirement age. UCC, however, insisted that Prof. Boampong’s continued leadership was in line with its own statutes and governance framework. As the disagreement intensified, GTEC took the dramatic step of removing UCC from its list of accredited tertiary institutions and suspending government subventions to the university—a move that sent shockwaves through the academic community. Relief finally came on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, when GTEC released a statement signed by the Acting Director of Corporate Affairs. The Commission announced it had reversed the sanctions after the UCC Registrar provided evidence of compliance with GTEC’s directives and Prof. Boampong decided to challenge the matter in court. “Following the evidence provided by the Registrar of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), complying with the directive issued by GTEC on September 19, 2025, as well as Prof. Johnson Boampong taking up the case in court, GTEC, with immediate effect, restores all services that were earlier withdrawn to UCC,” the statement read. GTEC further confirmed that UCC had been reinstated on its website as a fully accredited institution. The news has brought temporary relief to students, staff, and stakeholders, who had grown increasingly anxious about the impact of the impasse on the university’s operations and reputation. For now, UCC can continue its academic mission, as the legal and administrative saga unfolds. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

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Our Journey Has Only Just Begun” – Valedictory Speech by Dr. David Jesining Sumbo at MITDS 7th Graduation
Education, Opinion

Our Journey Has Only Just Begun” – Valedictory Speech by Dr. David Jesining Sumbo at MITDS 7th Graduation

The atmosphere at the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS), Bolgatanga, was filled with pride and emotion as Dr. David Jesining Sumbo delivered a heartfelt valedictory address during the 7th graduation ceremony. Dr. Sumbo began his speech with deep gratitude, recognizing the collective effort that had carried the PhD graduands through their academic journey. “Our supervisors, mentors, advisors, and all the academic and non-academic staff of MITDS challenged us, guided us, and sometimes simply gave us a listening ear. This is very much appreciated.” He lauded the University for Development Studies (UDS) for its supervisory role, particularly through its Quality Assurance Directorate, which ensured academic excellence at MITDS. With admiration, he singled out the institution’s founder: “Prof. Millar has been the pillar of the institution, making himself available to all students, whether directly supervising them or not. No student was left stranded.” The valedictorian’s words also highlighted the often unseen role of family support. He spoke movingly of his daughter, Dr. Songbawiere, whose encouragement kept him motivated: “Anytime I raised doubts about how long I would use the certificate before retirement, she reminded me that the certificate is not for me, but for the children. That gave me a completely different perspective.” Reflecting on the struggles and triumphs of the doctoral journey, Dr. Sumbo described it as both exciting and frustrating. “As adult learners, we had to juggle between responsibilities at home and at work while maintaining high-quality standards. It was not easy, but it is fulfilling to know that you have contributed in your own little way to knowledge.” He commended his colleagues—clergymen, academics, development workers, businessmen, for becoming a family through the shared rigors of their studies. Their bond, he said, should not end at graduation: “Our friendship and comradeship have deepened over the period. Let’s continue to forge ahead to impact the world with our new skills acquired based on the MITDS philosophy.” For Mr. Sumbo, the greatest lesson of the PhD was not just academic achievement but a deeper humility and curiosity. “The more we learn, the more we realize how much remains to be understood. Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known,” he said, quoting Carl Sagan. As he closed, Dr. Sumbo urged his fellow graduates to see development as a lifelong collective mission: “Development is not a destination, it is a continuous, collective journey and ours is only just beginning. So let’s not stop here. Let’s stay curious, stay humble, and continue searching—not just for answers, but for better questions.” Source: Apexnewsgh.com

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UDS Vice Chancellor Calls for Swift Chartering of MITDS at Seventh Graduation
Education, Opinion

UDS Vice Chancellor Calls for Swift Chartering of MITDS at Seventh Graduation

The Vice Chancellor of the University for Development Studies (UDS), Prof. Seidu Alhassan, represented by Prof. Abdulai Abubakari, has urged government and regulatory bodies to expedite the process of granting a Presidential Charter to the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS). He made the call during the Institute’s seventh graduation ceremony held on Saturday. Prof. Abubakari, speaking on behalf of the UDS Vice Chancellor, said it was both an honour and a privilege to be part of the milestone celebration of MITDS, describing the Institute as “a cherished baby of UDS.” “Since the inception of MITDS, UDS has played her mentoring role to the fullest. We have provided lecturers, supervised student theses, and examined works to support the Institute from day one,” he remarked. He revealed that UDS had recently renewed its affiliation certificate with MITDS to strengthen their collaboration. He also expressed appreciation for the space MITDS had offered UDS to mount its distance education programme. Touching on the future of MITDS, Prof. Abubakari commended the Institute’s progress in teaching, research, publications, and community service, describing their achievements as “worth mentioning and emulating.” He, however, emphasized the importance of the next step in its journey. “To be found worthy of a Presidential Charter is a great landmark in the academic ladder. It is only then that MITDS can award her own degrees in place of UDS degrees,” he stressed. He called on the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), government, GETFund, and other support agencies to assist MITDS, especially in expanding its ICT and Artificial Intelligence infrastructure. To the graduates, the Vice Chancellor offered words of encouragement and a challenge for lifelong learning. “Education is a life-long endeavor. The conferment of a degree today is only another phase of your academic life. Feel challenged to expand your horizon and make yourself more relevant and marketable for your family, your country, and the world at large,” he urged. He reminded the graduates that they would be carrying UDS certificates and, therefore, must be “worthy ambassadors of their alma mater and shine their light wherever they find themselves.” With blessings and good wishes, he concluded his address before proceeding with the conferment of degrees. Source: Apexnewsgh.com  

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MITDS Chairman Calls for Support as Institute Marks 7th Graduation MITDS Chairman
Education, Opinion

MITDS Chairman Calls for Support as Institute Marks 7th Graduation

The Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS) on Saturday, September 20, 2025, held its seventh graduation ceremony in Bolgatanga, marking yet another milestone in the institute’s 11-year journey of academic excellence. Chairman of the MITDS Council, Naa Ganglaar Bog-Belagr Tater V, in his address, recalled the institute’s humble beginnings in 2014 and its growth into a recognized center for higher learning. He described the journey as “long and interesting,” adding that he felt honored to witness its transformation from afar in the early years to serving closely as Council Chairman today. “Last year, I pledged on behalf of the Council to continue the unfinished development agenda of our predecessors,” he reminded the gathering. “I wish to reiterate this pledge and commitment. We will continue to support the academic and administrative progress of MITDS.” The Chairman expressed gratitude to partners who have stood by the institution, including the University for Development Studies (UDS), MITDS’ affiliate institution; the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), which is preparing MITDS for chartering; and the National Investment Bank (Bolgatanga branch), which supported the institute with its first overdraft facility when all other banks turned them down. Highlighting the institute’s achievements, Naa Ganglaar proudly noted that MITDS has so far produced 36 first-degree holders, 22 MPhil graduates, and 37 PhDs. “I am very proud to be a Council Chairman who is part of such remarkable deliverables,” he said. On the future of MITDS, he outlined major milestones, including the reaccreditation of MPhil and PhD programs, the establishment of new faculties and departments, partnerships with international institutions such as Broos Institute in the Netherlands and LUITEBM University in Zambia, as well as collaborations with SOFT Advisory Consulting and UDS Distance Education programs. He further called on government and development partners to support MITDS with critical infrastructure such as a library complex, IT facilities, a conference hall, and an administration block. “Every infrastructure seen and unseen was fully funded from internal and private sources,” he stressed. “There has never been any donor support since the inception of the institute in 2014. If we want MITDS to do more, they will need support.” The Chairman also urged national policymakers to consider a dedicated Grass Economy Policy for Northern Ghana, drawing from MITDS’ groundbreaking research on the use of dry grass, which he believes can reduce bushfires and their impact on climate change. Turning his attention to the graduates, Naa Ganglaar commended the 11 PhD candidates prepared to receive their degrees. “I congratulate them in advance and admonish them to continue to make us proud wherever they find themselves,” he said. “They have a duty to give back to their families, the Nation, and the World at large.” With those remarks, the Chairman formally declared the congregation duly constituted and invited the Vice Chancellor of UDS to perform the statutory function of conferring degrees. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

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Millar Institute Marks Seventh Graduation, Unveils New Faculties and Bold Research Innovations
Education, Opinion

Millar Institute Marks Seventh Graduation, Unveils New Faculties and Bold Research Innovations

The Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS) in Bolgatanga has held its seventh graduation ceremony, with President of the Institute, Prof. David Millar, announcing major academic and research breakthroughs that position the institute as a growing force in Ghana’s higher education landscape. Prof. Millar, addressing the gathering with what he described as “extreme excitement,” said the event was not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a continuation of the Institute’s journey following its 10th anniversary last year. “Today, we are marking the seventh graduation event of MITDS. This is no mean achievement and you all took active part in getting us this far,” he noted. The President revealed that MITDS has secured accreditation to expand from one faculty to three, with newly created departments covering culture and development studies, indigenous innovation and communication, and endogenous education and lifelong learning. He urged stakeholders to support the promotion of these programs. “I wish to call on you all to help advertise these new faculties and programmes when they are up and running,” Prof. Millar appealed. In a bold move, MITDS has also developed what Prof. Millar described as “the first of its kind in Ghana”, a Post-Doctoral and Post-Master Research Programme designed to sharpen the skills of young academics to produce world-class research. Highlighting the Institute’s flagship Grass Economy Project, Prof. Millar detailed groundbreaking research that is turning ordinary grass into economic products such as charcoal briquettes, brown paper alternatives to plastics, and biochar for soil fertility. “This landmark achievement has the potential of cascading into a massive Grass Industry for Northern Ghana. It will simply turn grass, a nuisance in northern Ghana, into grass as an economic commodity,” he declared. The project, he noted, has already attracted global attention, with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) featuring it among its international success stories. Prof. Millar acknowledged challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and staffing. He explained that MITDS has never received dedicated government or donor funding for infrastructure and continues to rely on internal resources. Despite this, he praised the commitment of the Institute’s council and management, led by Chairman Naa Ganglaar Bog-Belagr Tater V, for keeping MITDS on track. In line with its statutes, MITDS has upheld a Disability Clause, supporting students with impairments to complete their studies. Prof. Millar cited the case of a PhD student with visual impairment who was able to graduate before his passing, as well as another graduate with walking impairment. As eleven PhD students graduated under the mentorship of the University for Development Studies (UDS), Prof. Millar left them with a simple but striking message: “If you like the experience you have had at MITDS, tell others. If you don’t like the experience, then tell us.” Prof. Millar reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to providing “quality tertiary education with a difference” despite financial constraints, stressing that MITDS would continue to innovate, collaborate, and contribute solutions to Ghana’s development challenges. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

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