EdTech stakeholders call for implementation of policy to boost education innovation

Ghana’s EdTech stakeholders have committed to developing a comprehensive roadmap aimed at integrating educational technology solutions into the country’s educational system. This commitment was made at the EdTech Stakeholder Forum, held at the Tang Palace Hotel in Accra. The forum was organised by MEST Africa in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including policymakers, EdTech entrepreneurs, educators, and development partners, to discuss expert insights and recommendations. These will serve as the foundation for a strategic framework to incorporate technology into the national education system, ultimately advancing educational innovation.

The stakeholders identified three main action points for the successful integration of EdTech in Ghana:

Strategic Roadmap Development: Participants collaborated to draft a detailed EdTech roadmap, which outlines the necessary steps for scaling innovative solutions, supporting startups, and addressing existing gaps in the education sector. This roadmap is expected to steer the implementation of Ghana’s EdTech strategy.

The forum fostered a spirit of collaboration, with various stakeholders discussing challenges and co-creating solutions. A working group has been established to maintain ongoing dialogue and cooperation, which will strengthen the impact of EdTech initiatives across Ghana. Discussions also emphasised the importance of aligning EdTech efforts with the government’s broader educational objectives. This ensures that technology integration supports a cohesive and efficient learning environment across the country.

Olufemi Adewumi, Programmes Director at MEST Africa, expressed his enthusiasm about the forum’s outcomes, stating: “At MEST Africa, we believe that collaboration is key to driving impactful change in the education sector.

This forum has provided an invaluable opportunity for diverse stakeholders to come together and co-create a roadmap that will not only accelerate the adoption of EdTech in Ghana but will also foster an ecosystem that delivers innovative solutions to reduce the education gap.”

The EdTech Stakeholder Forum featured roundtable discussions, breakout sessions, and an interactive workshop. These platforms enabled participants to share their experiences, exchange ideas, and contribute to shaping the future of educational technology in Ghana.

Anyele Perbi, CEO of Perbi Cubs, praised the forum, saying, “The discussions were incredibly insightful and empowering. The networking opportunities allowed us to connect with fellow innovators and decision-makers, sparking ideas that will help us scale our solutions and make a tangible difference in the education landscape. It’s encouraging to see a united effort to align our innovations with the nation’s educational goals.”

The Mastercard Foundation remains committed to supporting the growth of Ghana’s EdTech sector. It will continue working closely with stakeholders to ensure that technology improves learning outcomes for all students.

Suraj Shah, Head of Strategic Partnerships and Thought Leadership at the Mastercard Foundation Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning, highlighted the importance of developing an adaptive and inclusive EdTech strategy: “Education systems need to evolve to be more resilient and technology-enabled to withstand future shocks, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Forums like this one are crucial in formulating policies that resonate with the needs of the education ecosystem.”

The event concluded with a networking session that facilitated discussions on potential collaborations among participants.