By Edward Dankwah
Accra, Aug 24, GNA – Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA), says the Government is exploring ways to extend indirect support to private primary and Junior High Schools (JHS) through early childhood education investments and possible capitation grants.
He said the emphasis was on stakeholder engagement, equitable funding, and targeted relief for low-fee private schools in under-served communities.
The Minister was speaking at the climax of the 60th anniversary celebration of Mothercare International School in Accra.
The Minister, together with Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, Deputy Chief of Staff for Administration donated an amount of ¢60,000.00, 10 computers and 50pcs of Flamingo Publications to the Mothercare School.
The donation was done on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama and Her Excellency Lordina Dramani Mahama, whom were described as “the first family” of Mothercare School.
Mr. Ibrahim also indicated that from September 2025, the Government would extend the Free Senior High School (SHS) Policy to include private SHS, particularly in deprived communities
He said the move reflected the vital role of private schools and government’s commitment to fairness and inclusivity in education, ensuring that no child was left behind regardless of the type of school they attended.
The Minister said at the same time, the Government was working to address challenges such as regulatory charges, examination fees, and fair admissions into SHS.
“Tackling these concerns will strengthen the overall education system and ensure that children in private primary and JHS institutions can transition smoothly into higher levels of learning,” he added.
He said education continually was the bedrock of national development, and that the 60-year story of Mothercare proved that when vision, discipline, and community support converge, a single institution could transform thousands of lives and strengthen a nation’s future.
He said today, Ghana faced new educational challenges such as the rise of digital technology and the need for digital literacy, the urgency of environmental sustainability, the demand for global citizenship in a competitive world, and the challenge of preparing young people for jobs that do not yet exist.
Mr. Ibrahim added that the model of combining strong academics with moral training, creativity, and leadership was exactly what Ghana needed to raise a generation capable of meeting these challenges.
The Minister said 60 years was no small journey, but a story of vision, resilience, commitment and transformation, and a story that has shaped lives, produced leaders, and contributed immensely to Ghana’s educational landscape.
Mr. Ibrahim said the journey of Mothercare School mirrored Ghana’s own journey, starting small, persevering through challenges, and steadily building a legacy of excellence.
He said these contributions have helped bridge gaps in Ghana’s education system by complementing government schools, easing pressure on public resources, and producing alumni who enriched every sector of the national life.
Mr. Ibrahim commended the management, staff, and parents of Mothercare for upholding the founder’s legacy, urging them to continue to innovate while instilling discipline, integrity, and excellence.
He also challenged alumni to give back to their alma mater to sustain its impact.
GNA
Kenneth Odeng Adade