By Prince Acquah
Cape Coast, Feb 28, GNA – The Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (IEPA) of the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has launched its 50th anniversary with a firm commitment to driving change in education through innovation and collaboration.
The year-long golden jubilee is on the theme: “IEPA@50: Innovating for Educational Impact and Excellence.”
Activities lined up for the celebration include workshops, webinar for local partners, alumni roadshows, public lectures, fun games, students’ expo, musical concert, international conference, homecoming and the publication of a Special Edition of IEPA’s Journal of Educational Management.
Prof Michael Boakye-Yiadom, Director-General of the Institute, indicated that IEPA must be innovative using technology to implement new pedagogical strategies and develop inclusive and sustainable educational policies to remain relevant and impactful.
“We understand that education is the key to unlocking the potential of individuals and nations. Therefore, our commitment to driving change through innovative approaches continues to guide our actions in the coming years,” he noted.
IEPA was established in 1975 with the support of UNESCO and UNDP to build and strengthen the capacity of educational planners, administrators, and leaders in the West African sub-region and provide support for education ministries to undertake sector-wide planning, policy development, and implementation.
The Institute also undertakes cutting-edge research, consultancy, and promote innovation in education service delivery, creates a platform to discuss topical issues in education and provides policy advice to Ministries of Education.
This year also marks the 5th anniversary of IEPA’s designation as a UNESCO Category Il Centre of Excellence, further solidifying its position as a leading institution in the field of education.
Prof Boakye-Yiadom observed that the Institute had played a pivotal role in developing educational leaders, conducting impactful research, and providing expert consultancy services to governments and institutions.
In the past 50 years, IEPA had trained thousands of educational planners, administrators and leaders shaping education systems across the world, he noted.
“The transition to a UNESCO Centre of Excellence is a testament to the hard work, dedication and resilience of IEPA,” he said, adding that “we will continue to innovate, collaborate and strive for educational impact and excellence.”
Prof Boakye-Yiadom called on all stakeholders to support the cause of the Institute, stressing the Institute’s firm belief in collaboration and partnerships.
Unveiling the logo of the anniversary, Prof Denis Worlanyo Aheto, Pro-Vice Chancellor of UCC, congratulated the Institute for the “trail blazing” work it had done in the education sector, calling it a true partner of governments in educational research, planning and administration.
Prof Aheto highlighted the need for deliberate practical actions to address the persistent challenges of access, equity and quality in education in Ghana and Africa.
He noted that the future of education in Ghana and West Africa presented both opportunities and complex challenges, stressing the need to prepare students adequately for the 21st Century heavily characterised interconnectedness and rapidly change.
“This requires a shift towards a more holistic and learne-centered approach to education; one that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity and digital literacy,” he said.
“This requires innovative solutions such as leveraging technology to reach marginalised communities, providing targeted support for students with special needs and empowering teachers with skills and needed resources to deliver high quality instruction,” he indicated.
GNA