The government is actively pursuing the establishment of four new public universities across the Savannah, Ahafo, and Western North regions, representing a significant expansion of educational opportunities within the country. Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, highlighted this initiative as a key component of President Mahama’s commitment to broadening access to higher education and equipping a larger cohort of young people with the skills necessary for national development. The proposed universities, slated for locations in Oti, Ahafo, and Western North, along with Damongo in the Savannah, are expected to contribute substantially to the country’s educational landscape.
He stated that the initiative, a substantial part of the government’s broader strategy to increase the number of public tertiary institutions, is being funded by a total of US$30 million from the grant resources allocated by President Mahama. Efforts are underway to secure additional funding to support the universities’ development. Mr. Iddrisu emphasized that the establishment of these institutions will play a crucial role in diversifying the higher education sector, particularly in science, technology, and specialized fields.
The Ministry of Education has already finalized plans for the University of Science and Technology in Damongo, with the design and construction of the institution already completed. He stated that President Mahama had committed US$30 million in grant resources towards the commencement of the project, with ongoing efforts to mobilize additional funding to ensure the university’s operational readiness. The government anticipates that the expansion will allow for a greater number of young people to pursue professional and technical education.
In addition to the University of Science and Technology, the Minister announced plans to expand medical education in the Upper East Region, with the government positioning a university to offer medical education, subject to necessary accreditation and the mobilization of additional resources. The government is also aiming to expand facilities at the Zamse Senior High/Technical School (ZAMSTEC) in Ho, and further invest in secondary schools across the region. The Minister also revealed plans to expand facilities at the Bolgatanga Technical University, and to construct regional libraries in the Upper East and Volta regions.
Specifically, the government has secured funding from the Italian government to retool existing universities, including the Bolgatanga Technical University. The initiative is also expected to contribute to the Free Senior High School program, with the government acknowledging that the policy has been effective but stating that it will be reviewing its implementation to address infrastructure, feeding and quality assurance challenges. Mr. Iddrisu stressed that the government’s education agenda is focused not only on expanding access but also on ensuring that students receive quality education in adequately resourced institutions. He stated, “Free Senior High School has come to stay,” underscoring the government’s commitment to expanding infrastructure, providing for feeding, and strengthening quality assurance.” He urged Ghanaians to support the government’s education agenda, noting that the investments being made demonstrate a continued commitment to education under President Mahama’s administration.”
This expansion of tertiary institutions is expected to contribute significantly to the economic development of the Savannah regions, fostering skills development and bolstering the nation’s workforce. The strategic placement of these universities across diverse geographical areas underlines the government’s commitment to equitable access to quality education for all citizens.
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Source: Graphic Online
