Ghanaian students are set to benefit from a renewed focus on STEM education. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu stated that President John Mahama's initiative aims to equip young learners with essential skills for a changing world. The program emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
This push for STEM is part of President Mahama's "reset agenda" for education. Demonstrations of robotics and play-based learning at Sawla showcased the hands-on approach. The minister highlighted this as President Mahama's commitment to advancing science and technology education across the nation. These methods are designed to make learning more engaging and strengthen foundational knowledge.
The current STEM drive has roots dating back to 2012. Then, President Mahama and Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang initiated a study. This study examined challenges in teaching mathematics, science, and technology. The goal was to build a stronger educational base for future growth.
Significant investments are being made in teacher training and school resources. iTEC Global has trained between 7,000 and 8,000 teachers. These educators teach in junior high and basic schools nationwide. Over 4,000 junior high schools have received new teaching materials. This ensures teachers have the tools to implement the new curriculum effectively.
For the Sawla District, new infrastructure projects are planned. These are linked to the government's plan to end the double-track system in secondary schools. The Sawla MP requested improvements, which have been approved. The Sawla District will receive a new institution funded by the World Bank. Another secondary school will undergo rehabilitation. These projects represent a tangible commitment to improving educational facilities.
The new schools will feature more than just classrooms. They will include laboratories and workshops. This aims to provide practical learning spaces. Such facilities are crucial for hands-on STEM education. They will support deeper understanding of scientific principles and engineering concepts.
Minister Iddrisu emphasized that these investments signal a deliberate shift. The focus is now on prioritizing basic education. Evidence suggests strong foundations are key to long-term academic success. President Mahama is realigning investment towards basic education. This emphasis on science, mathematics, engineering, and technology is central to this strategy.