The Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration has commenced the commissioning of over 80 educational facilities across Ghana as part of its efforts to enhance access to quality education and strengthen its position ahead of the upcoming December elections.
Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum officially launched the initiative during a ceremony at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra on Thursday. The event, themed “Education Transformation in Action: Historic Commissioning of 80 Educational Projects,” showcased the government’s investments in modern educational infrastructure.
The projects, located across all 16 regions, include revamped basic schools, state-of-the-art STEM-focused senior high schools, and technical institutions. Highlights of the commissioned facilities include the St. Barnabas Anglican School in Osu, the Kpasenkpe Model STEM Senior High School in the West Mamprusi District, and the Accra STEM Academy in La Nkwantanang-Madina. Additionally, several Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, such as the Anyinam TVET-Applied Technical and Fashion School, were unveiled.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Adutwum underscored the importance of equity in education, asserting that “children from poor backgrounds deserve to sit in modern classrooms just like their affluent peers.”
While the Education Minister highlighted the transformative potential of the new facilities, he also acknowledged the long-standing challenges within the sector. “We are 50 years behind, but at least we have begun. The evidence will tell the story of how the journey toward STEM transformation started,” he stated.
Critics, however, view the timing of the projects’ commissioning as a strategic move to gain favor with voters ahead of the December general elections. The government has faced mounting pressure from opposition parties over various socio-economic issues, and this initiative is seen by some as an attempt to shift public attention toward its achievements.
Dr. Adutwum also called on the electorate to support the current administration, urging continuity in governance to ensure sustained development. Whether these efforts will translate into voter confidence remains to be seen as the country heads into a highly anticipated election season.
By Evelyn Naadu Borquaye || ghananewsonline.com.gh