STEM EDUCATION, THE WAY FORWARD FOR GHANA

The end of every working year calls for a thorough review of organizational performance. The outcome will require strategizing for the following year, how to improve upon attained set targets and turn around shortfalls. Many institutions get together to undertake this exercise. The Ministry of Education opted to execute this end-of-year ritual through a thanksgiving service.

The well-attended thanksgiving service came off at the Ohene Konadu Auditorium of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) on Tuesday, 10th January 2023. It was on the theme “Restructuring Education for National Transformation: Our Role”.

The Minister of Education, Hon. Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum and the Hon. Deputy Minister in charge of General Education, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, were present. Other dignitaries who, graced the occasion were the Chairman Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye and the General Secretary. The Executive Director of Complementary Education Agency (CEA), Mr. Francis Asumadu and the Deputy Executive Director of Operations, Ms. Ameh Gloria Mensah, led the delegation from CEA. The Agency was well represented.

In a sermon delivered by the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Apostle Nyamekye, called on all to count our blessings, not curses. He impressed upon the Ministry to be thankful for what we have and be content with it.

The colourful event saw Pastor Nii Okai and Evangelist Diana Asamoah ministering. A host of other Ministers also blessed the service with song ministrations. The General Secretary of the Church of Pentecost led the gathering to say a prayer for Ghana.

In an address, Hon. Dr. Adutwum stressed his vision of education for Ghana. He compared Vietnam producing thousands of engineers every year to Ghana, which is turning out a few. He also referred to South Korea and Ghana’s per capita income, which the latter was well ahead in 196o. He staunchly believes that Ghana can attain the heights of the South Koreans through Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. Accordingly, he was motivated to build STEM facilities across the country. He requested support from the Heads of Agencies and Departments to achieve this vision. He indicated his commitment to pursuing this agenda.

The impact of the thanksgiving service prompted patrons to call the Ministry to institutionalize it.