Ghana education system is at risk of stagnation – GNACOPS Director

The National Executive Director of the Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS), Enoch Kwasi Gyetuah, has raised concerns about the potential stagnation of Ghana ‘s education system.

In a post highlighted by Ghanaeducation.org, Gyetuah emphasized that despite the government’s efforts to modernize the curriculum and instructional methods, a critical aspect has been overlooked: assessment.

He warned that this oversight could have far-reaching consequences, impacting the very students the education system aims to empower.

Gyetuah painted a vivid picture of the situation, stating, “Imagine a young Ghanaian student, full of curiosity and potential, eager to learn and grow.

But as they progress through the education system, they’re met with a narrow focus on memorization and regurgitation of facts.

Their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills lie dormant, unchallenged, and undeveloped. This is the reality we risk perpetuating if we fail to transform our assessment practices.”

The Current State of Assessments

Gyetuah explained that assessment drives instruction.

When the education system prioritizes fact-recall over deeper learning, it inadvertently encourages teachers to focus on the transmission of knowledge rather than understanding.

This approach not only hinders students’ ability to think creatively and solve complex problems but also fails to prepare them for an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world.

The heavy reliance on high-stakes testing further exacerbates the issue by perpetuating a culture of teaching to the test rather than teaching for understanding.

This practice narrows the curriculum, pushing out essential skills like creativity and critical thinking, and disadvantages students who may not perform well on standardized tests.

ALSO READ: WAEC to introduce Computer-Based Tests option in 2024 Nov/Dec

 A Call for Change

To prevent the stagnation of Ghana’s education system, Gyetuah called for a comprehensive rethinking, redelivery, and reimagining of assessment practices.

He outlined several key steps that need to be taken:

1. Emphasize Competency-Based Assessments: These assessments should evaluate students’ ability to apply knowledge and skills in practical situations.

Competency-based assessments focus on what students can do with what they know, rather than just what they have memorized.

2. Incorporate Authentic Assessments: These assessments should mirror real-world scenarios, encouraging students to think critically and solve problems.

Authentic assessments involve tasks that are relevant and meaningful to students, allowing them to demonstrate their learning in context.

3. Leverage Technology-Enhanced Assessments: Utilizing technology can provide immediate feedback and track students’ progress over time.

Technology-enhanced assessments can also offer a more personalized learning experience, adapting to the needs and abilities of each student.

The Future of Ghana’s Education System

Gyetuah stressed that transforming assessment practices would create a perpetual cycle of educational evolution, ensuring Ghana’s students are equipped to succeed in an ever-changing world.

“Let us not squander the progress made thus far; let us rethink, redeliver, and reimagine assessment to secure a brighter future for Ghana’s education system and the young minds it serves,” he urged.

By adopting these innovative assessment strategies, the education system can move beyond rote memorization and foster a learning environment that nurtures critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

This shift is essential for preparing students to face the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

Conclusion

The call to action by the GNACOPS Director highlights the urgent need for reform in the way students are assessed in Ghana.

As the country strives to modernize its education system, it is crucial to ensure that assessments align with the goals of fostering deeper understanding and practical skills.

By embracing competency-based, authentic, and technology-enhanced assessments, Ghana can create a dynamic and responsive education system that truly empowers its students.

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