Govt to convene all-party conference on education reforms

Accra, March 5, GNA - In an effort to halt a cycle of reforms in the education sector whenever there is a change in government, the Ministry of Education will convene an all-party conference on education reform to review various technical options and reach a consensus reached.

This was announced by the Minister of Finance, Dr Kwbena Duffuor in the budget presented to parliament on Thursday. He said the content of education, management and structural challenges will continue to be addressed, adding that, the emphasis during the 2009 budget will be focused on improved provision of facilities for Science, Technology (ICT) and Technical/Vocational Education.

"In addition, training in line with achieving Educational Reforms goals and realization of benchmarks enshrined in the Education Strategic Plan (ESP) to accelerate the growth and development of education will also be pursued."

He said the broad areas were improving facilities, increasing teacher motivation and improving management.

Dr Duffuor said programmes would be implemented to facilitate equitable access to and participation in Quality Education and Training.

"An intensified enrolment drive will be pursued to increase access to basic education and expedite progress towards the attainment of Universal Primary Completion by 2012."

In keeping with Government's intention to provide school uniforms for children in basic schools, immediate action will be taken to make this available by the beginning of the next academic year, 2009/2010. The Ministry will continue with its activities geared towards providing infrastructural facilities for pre-school education. There will be collaboration with District Assemblies and other non-state actors towards the construction of classrooms for this level of education.

Dr Duffuor said to further expand and improve upon educational infrastructure, the Ministry would continue with the programme of upgrading basic school infrastructure throughout the country. Rehabilitation works on existing classrooms and provision of needed furniture will also be undertaken.

"Government will ensure that all extra fees are abolished and school uniforms provided to one million pupils in basic schools in deprived communities and the shift systems in JHS abolished.

"For effective utilization of the capitation grant, Regional Directorates will be made to monitor its implementation and assist weaker districts through capacity building." The Minister said free exercise books would be provided for every pupil in all public basic schools.

Dr Duffour said Science Resource Centres would be revamped in selected SHS throughout the country during the year. Science teachers will be trained and funds provided to improve the running of these centres. Programmes to increase the enthusiasm of students in the study of Science will be relentlessly pursued.