Deputy Minister for Education, Clement Apaak, has stressed the need for Ghana to strengthen technical and value-based education to remain competitive in the global economy.

Speaking after the Independence Day celebrations on March 6 2025, Mr Apaak said education reform must prioritise Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as well as Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to equip young people with the skills needed for national development.

“We cannot make progress without education, and that includes a strong focus on TVET and STEM. These fields are key to building a workforce that can drive innovation and industrial growth,” he said.

Mr Apaak pointed out that President John Mahama’s administration is already implementing major reforms while also awaiting recommendations from the National Education Forum, which was launched to gather ideas from all sectors on how to improve Ghana’s education system.

“We must reflect, review, and reset our approach to education. Where we have fallen short, we need to make corrections. Where we have made progress, we must double our efforts,” he stated.

He stressed that education should go beyond academics, highlighting the importance of instilling discipline, national consciousness, and ethical values in students.

“As we modernise our education system, we must also reinforce value-based learning. Education is not just about knowledge but about building responsible citizens who are dedicated to national progress,” he added.

The government, he said, is committed to expanding access to technical education, improving infrastructure, and providing resources for science and technology education.

He expressed confidence that through a national consensus, Ghana will develop an education system that prepares the next generation for both local and global opportunities.