Education Minister pledges collaboration with PRINCOF to improve learning outcomes

By Kodjo Adams

Accra, Jan. 31, GNA – Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, has pledged to work with the Principals of Colleges of Education in Ghana (PRINCOF) to enhance learning outcomes and ensure equitable access to education.

“The government will work with you to give meaning to the constitutional aspiration of equal educational opportunities for every Ghanaian,” he said.

Mr. Iddrisu made the pledge in Accra during a courtesy call from the PRINCOF executive.

He said that the government recognized the challenges within the country’s education sector and was receptive to discussions on how to enhance the system

“We are open to professional advice on licensure exams. Our thinking is that it should be incorporated into the curriculum and that of the education Department of the University of Cape Coast and become one of the exams that can be written,” he said.

Mr. Iddrisu said that the government planned to implement national standardized tests in all public schools for primary two, four, six, and the second year of Junior High School.

He explained that the initiative would better prepare students for examinations by addressing their emotional, psychological, and academic readiness.

Mr. Iddrisu commended PRINCOF and other stakeholders for their efforts in addressing issues related to the conditions of service of the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) and the migration to the University structure grade.

He pledged to promptly address the remaining CETAG issues to ensure industrial harmony and a peaceful academic environment.

On infrastructure, the Minister stated his intention to uncap GetFund to ensure sufficient allocations are made, although he admitted that these may still fall short of fully addressing the needs.

He acknowledged the challenges faced by the Colleges and committed to reviewing the government budget to address these concerns, especially regarding the provision of vehicles for operational duties.

The Minister said that the government would propose transitioning from the allowance system to an enhanced student loan, aimed at helping students support themselves while in school.

He also mentioned that the upcoming Education Stakeholder Conference would offer a platform for various sectors within the education space to present recommendations to the government on ways to improve the sector.

Professor Samuel Awinkene Atintono, President of PRINCOF, congratulated the Minister on his appointment and expressed a commitment to collaborate in improving the Colleges across the country.

He urged the Minister to expedite the resolution of outstanding issues with CETAG and address their concerns to prevent further disruptions to academic activities.

GNA