At Homeland Ghana Educational Foundation, we’re passionate about making sure every child in Ghana has the chance to get a great basic education. We know that education is the key to a brighter future, and we believe there are a few important changes we can make to improve how children learn across the country.
Here are our main ideas for improving education in Ghana:
1. Better Training for Teachers
Teachers are the most important part of the education system. When teachers are well-trained, children learn better. But teaching isn’t just about knowing the subject—it’s also about knowing how to take care of children’s needs and make learning fun.
What needs to change:
- Teachers should have regular training to learn new teaching methods and better ways to support all students.
- Child rights training is also important, so teachers can understand how to protect the rights of every student and create a safe learning environment.
- Teachers should have clear ways to improve and grow in their careers. This is important because while the children’s education matters, the teacher’s development does too. Teaching should be a career where teachers can develop their skills, learn more, and grow in their passion for helping children. It’s a way for teachers to keep getting better at what they do and feel motivated in their work. 👨📘
2. Make Sure Every Child Can Learn
Not every child in Ghana has the same opportunities to learn. Some children have physical or learning challenges, while others might come from less privileged backgrounds. All children should have the same chance to succeed.
What needs to change:
- Inclusive education is important. Schools should have the resources to support children with disabilities or special needs.
- Teachers should be trained to work with children from all backgrounds and make sure no one feels left out.
- Children’s rights are respected, meaning every child should be treated equally, no matter their background or abilities. 🏫🌟
3. Improve School Facilities and Supplies
A good school is a safe, clean, and well-equipped place to learn. Sadly, many schools in Ghana don’t have enough resources, like books or desks. Without the right tools, students find it harder to get involved and fully engage in their learning.
What needs to change:
- Schools should be built and kept in good condition with things like clean water, working toilets, and enough space for all the students.
- School supplies like books, pens, and uniforms should be provided to every student, at no cost to parents or families. Just like in the UK, these items should be included as part of going to school.
- We need to start by making sure schools have basic things like electricity and good lighting. Once that’s in place, we can add technology like computers and the Internet to support learning in all subjects.🎒📚
4. Support Girls’ Education and Keep Them in School
Girls in Ghana face unique challenges that can keep them from going to school, especially when they get their period. Many girls miss school because they don’t have sanitary pads, which makes it hard for them to stay focused on their education.
What needs to change:
- Schools should provide sanitary pads to girls so they don’t miss school during their menstrual cycle.
- Education on menstrual health should also be part of the school curriculum for both boys and girls, so everyone understands the issue and can support girls in staying in school. 🚺📅
5. Involve Parents and Communities in Education
Education doesn’t only happen in the classroom. Parents, local leaders, and the wider community all play a key role in making sure children get a good education. When everyone works together, children are more likely to succeed.
What needs to change:
- Schools should hold regular community workshops and parent-teacher meetings to talk about how to improve education. These events are important because they can help parents understand how national education changes will directly affect their children, as they may not always know how these changes apply to their specific local context. Parents should be encouraged to take an active role in their child’s education. Open days and parent evenings should be regular events in schools. These meetings help parents connect with teachers and stay informed about their child’s progress. In the UK, schools often hold parent-teacher meetings every term. Studies show that students with involved parents tend to score 30% higher on tests. 🏠💬
What Else?
There is a strong case for the importance of mental health support, STEM education, and access to technology, and we understand why these areas matter. However, we believe the first five areas are the most urgent. From our work with schools and children in the Upper East Region, we see that improving the basics—like teacher training, school infrastructure, school supplies, and community involvement—must come first.
At Homeland Ghana Educational Foundation, we believe that basic education is really important for every child’s future. If we don’t make these changes, children won’t get the education they need for work and life. We need to make sure every child gets the chance to learn and do their best. Discover simple ways to support and be part of the solution on our website.
