Dr. Koranteng Pimpim has described Ghana’s education system as outdated and unfit for the demands of the 21st century. He said the time has come for Ghana to rethink its approach to education. Dr. Pimpim made these remarks during a lecture at the University of Education. He traced the history of education in Ghana, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses.
In his words, “If education is a passport to the future, Ghana’s passport is filled with expired visas. We are trying to enter the 21st century with credentials that were forged in colonial classrooms.”
Dr Pimpim explained that Ghana’s education began long before colonial influence. He stated that indigenous knowledge systems were the foundation of early education in Ghana. These systems were deeply rooted in cultural practices. Highlighting Ghana’s educational system reforms, he said the introduction of the Free Senior High School policy in 2017 marked a significant reform.
The Current State of Ghana’s Education
Dr. Pimpim expressed concern over the current state of education in Ghana. He said that despite the high number of qualified teachers and professors, the system remains ineffective.
“According to the Ghana Statistical Service report, 23% of tertiary-educated individuals experience long-term unemployment. By the age of 10, according to the World Bank, nearly 80% of Ghanaian children cannot read and understand a simple sentence.”
“It seems to me that our present educational system is not only woefully inadequate for the present needs, but also for the future,” he said.
The Future of Education in Ghana
Dr. Pimpim stressed the need for education to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. According to him, Ghana must move away from outdated systems and embrace modern teaching and learning methods.
Quoting Nelson Mandela, Dr. Pimpim stated, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
He argued that Ghana’s education must not only focus on access but also on quality and relevance. Dr. Pimpim called for policies that produce critical thinkers, innovators, and problem-solvers.
He reminded the audience of Dr Kwame Nkrumah’s vision that education was placed at the heart of nation-building by Ghana’s first president.
Dr. Pimpim addressed policymakers and educators to take bold steps in reforming Ghana’s education sector.
He said the future of Ghana depends on the kind of education provided today. Without urgent reforms, the country risks remaining behind in a competitive global environment.
He called on all stakeholders to rethink and reimagine education in Ghana. This, he said, is the only way to secure a bright and prosperous future for the nation.
