In a recent statement, Education Minister Dr. Yaw Adutwum has contradicted assertions that educational standards in Ghana, especially in senior high schools, have experienced a decline. Dr. Adutwum argued that despite the customary trend of diminishing standards with a surge in enrollment, as observed in other nations, Ghana’s education system has defied this norm, maintaining its quality of learning outcomes.

During an appearance on JoyNews’ Newsfile last Saturday, he dismissed claims of deteriorating standards as projections based on expectations derived from global educational trends. Dr. Adutwum acknowledged that experts in Ghana had expressed concerns about falling standards due to increased enrollment, a phenomenon commonly witnessed worldwide.

Contrary to the anticipated decline, the Education Minister attributed Ghana’s success to what he termed “Ghanaian magic.” He pointed out that the country’s surplus of highly skilled teachers and their effective deployment played a crucial role in preventing the anticipated decline in educational standards. According to him, Ghana stands out globally as one of the few countries with an excess of deployable teachers, a situation uncommon in other jurisdictions.

Dr. Adutwum elaborated on the unique aspects of Ghana’s educational expansion, emphasizing the creation of a distinct eco-system. He highlighted the introduction of free senior high school education, eliminating the previous delays caused by students seeking funds to pay their fees. The minister explained that the policy change resulted in improved attendance, with students now attending promptly, contributing to enhanced learning outcomes.