African Union High Representative for Silencing the Guns, Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, has challenged Ghana to redesign its education system to produce innovative thinkers, ethical leaders and job creators rather than graduates whose primary achievement is obtaining academic certificates.
Delivering the keynote address at the second edition of the Mfantsipim Sesquicentennial Lecture on Wednesday, July 29, Dr Chambas said Ghana’s long-term development depends on an education system that equips young people with the creativity, practical skills and moral values needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving global economy.
He questioned whether the country’s current education model is adequately preparing students to compete internationally and respond to the demands of modern industries.
“The question is, is our educational system churning out products who can compete globally? Are we nurturing innovators capable of creating jobs rather than merely seeking employment?” he asked.
According to Dr Chambas, education should not be measured solely by the number of certificates earned but by its ability to develop responsible citizens with strong character, integrity and the capacity to solve real-world problems.
He argued that schools must focus on producing graduates who combine academic excellence with technological competence, ethical values and leadership skills.
“Education is not merely about acquiring certificates. It is about forming character, cultivating wisdom, nurturing integrity, and preparing women and men who possess intellectual excellence, relevant technological skills, and moral courage and character,” he said.
Dr Chambas further noted that a strong education system is fundamental to protecting democratic values and promoting national development. He said education should help nurture citizens who respect diversity, uphold constitutional democracy and contribute positively to society.
He also stressed the importance of preparing students for an increasingly digital world, asking whether Ghana is equipping its young people to harness emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence without compromising the ethical principles that underpin human society.
“Are we raising citizens who respect diversity, defend constitutional democracy, and reject corruption? Are we equipping our young people to harness artificial intelligence while preserving the ethical values that define our humanity?” he asked.
Describing these as pressing national questions, Dr Chambas called for honest reflection among policymakers, educators and other stakeholders on how to make Ghana’s education system more relevant to the country’s development needs.
He urged government, educational institutions and education sector stakeholders to pursue reforms that place innovation, creativity, critical thinking, ethical leadership and practical skills at the centre of learning.
According to him, such reforms would better position Ghana to develop a globally competitive workforce capable of creating employment opportunities, driving economic growth and leading the country’s future development.
