Four new universities coming in to accommodate the growing number of tertiary students – Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has outlined various interventions by his government that are aimed at improving the quality of education.

These include teacher training programs, curriculum reforms, and the introduction of digital tools and resources to enhance teaching and learning.

By investing in the professional development of educators and modernizing the educational system, the government aims to lay a strong foundation for the future of the nation.

“We have launched several interventions aimed at improving the quality of education and ensuring that every child receives a holistic and well-rounded education,” the president said  when he received his fifth honorary doctorate degree from Valley View University on Sunday, 14th July 2024.

In addition to the Free SHS policy, the President highlighted efforts to support tertiary education. The “No Guarantor” policy under the Student Loan Trust Fund has significantly increased access to higher education by eliminating the requirement for a guarantor. This policy has empowered students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue their educational aspirations without undue financial burden. The number of students seeking tertiary education has risen from 443,978 in the 2016/2017 academic year to 711,695 in the 2022/2023 academic year.

The “No Guarantor” policy under the SLTF significantly increased access to higher education – Akufo-Addo

To accommodate the growing number of tertiary students, the government has decided to establish four new universities in Mampong, Akrodie, Bunso, and Kintampo, and expand facilities in existing ones. These initiatives are part of the government’s strategy to achieve a 40% Gross Tertiary Enrolment Ratio by 2030, up from the current 18.84%.

“The educational reforms carried out by the Akufo-Addo Government have also encompassed tertiary education, materially advancing access, infrastructure development, and STEM initiatives across the country,” the President noted.

Furthermore, the government has placed immense importance on the payment of research and book allowances to academia. Since 2020, the government has disbursed GH¢226 million as research allowance and GH¢491 million as book allowance. These investments aim to stimulate an environment conducive to scholarly investigation and innovation, enriching the quality of education and elevating research excellence in Ghana. “Nothing would give me more honor or more pleasure than if, one day, Ghana’s historians were to describe me as the Education President,” President Akufo-Addo declared.

In conclusion, President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed his commitment to making education a cornerstone of national development. He emphasized that the substantial investments in education and the various initiatives implemented by his administration are aimed at transforming Ghana into a knowledge-driven economy.

The President’s speech at Valley View University highlighted the significant progress made in the education sector and the unwavering commitment to providing quality education for all Ghanaians.

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