Basic education in Ghana is set for a major transformation following President John Dramani Mahama’s latest policy announcement aimed at strengthening the country’s foundation of learning.
Delivering the State of the Nation Address before Parliament, President Mahama described basic education as the most critical entry point in Ghana’s education system. He noted that it is at this level that children acquire foundational literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that determine their academic and professional future.
As part of a broader reform agenda, the government is undertaking a policy shift to rebalance national education investments in favor of basic education. The president said this move reflects the government’s recognition that strong secondary and tertiary outcomes begin with a solid base.
One of the key pillars of the basic education reform is a review of the Standards-Based Curriculum for Kindergarten to Primary Six. The revised curriculum will incorporate robotics, coding, and the responsible integration of generative artificial intelligence.
According to President Mahama, artificial intelligence will be introduced in an age-appropriate and developmentally sensitive manner. The focus will go beyond technical knowledge to include ethical use, digital responsibility, critical thinking, and the promotion of human values within the basic education system.
In addition to curriculum reforms, the government is targeting infrastructure expansion to address the long-standing challenge of schools under trees. For the 2026 financial year, the government has programmed the construction of 200 kindergarten blocks, 200 primary school blocks, and 200 junior high school blocks nationwide.
The president confirmed that adequate budgetary allocation has been made to support these projects, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to strengthening basic education infrastructure across the country.
On the financial front, President Mahama announced that all outstanding capitation grant arrears owed to public basic schools have been fully cleared. In addition, arrears related to BECE registration subsidies due to the West African Examinations Council have been settled.
He further disclosed that legacy debts owed to the examination body from previous years have also been cleared, restoring stability and confidence in the administration of national examinations at the basic education level.
The president emphasized that education for learners with special needs remains a priority under the basic education reform agenda. He described inclusive education as both a moral responsibility and a practical investment in Ghana’s human capital development.
