The poor quality of education in Ghana’s public basic schools has been linked to an over-centralized management system, according to prominent educationist Emeritus Professor Stephen Adei.

Speaking at the Graphic National Development Series (GNDS) at the University of Professional Studies in Accra, Prof. Adei criticized the concentration of power within the Ghana Education Service (GES) headquarters, suggesting that head teachers lack the authority to effectively manage their schools. This lack of autonomy, he said, has led to a decline in educational standards and discipline.

“Empowering head teachers to hire and fire their staff would ensure teachers perform their duties with diligence, improving the quality of education,” Prof. Adei argued during the panel discussion.

The GNDS, a platform for addressing key national development issues, focused on education and culture under the theme, “A Critical Look at Education and Culture in Ghana to Chart a Course for National Development, Peace, and Prosperity.”

In his remarks, Prof. Adei highlighted several issues plaguing public education, including declining standards, low moral values, and concerns about the training quality of teachers.

Prof. Adei noted a disparity between public and private schools, with private schools generally achieving better results despite employing fewer formally trained teachers. He attributed this to stronger leadership in private schools, contrasting with the limited authority of head teachers in the public system.

“Our teacher training colleges do not adequately prepare graduates, many of whom lack both the subject knowledge and the moral foundation necessary to fulfill their roles,” Prof. Adei added. Citing personal experience, he recalled hiring and then quickly dismissing three teachers with diplomas from reputable universities due to their subpar performance.

He warned that Ghana’s education system, if not reformed to instill moral values, could perpetuate issues like corruption. “We are at a point where students pay for assistance during their Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE),” he said. “This culture of corruption will continue to spread unless we address its roots.”

Prof. Adei called for an overhaul of Ghana’s education system to promote ethical values and a mindset shift critical to the nation’s future development.

Source:TheDotNews