Examining Ghana's secondary education ranking in the Legatum Prosperity Index 2023

The Legatum Prosperity Index serves as a crucial benchmark for assessing a country's overall well-being across multiple dimensions. In the 2023 edition of the index, Ghana's secondary education system was ranked 137 out of 167 countries.

This essay delves into the implications of this ranking, exploring the factors contributing to Ghana's standing and proposing strategies for improvement.

Influencing Ranking:

Several factors contribute to Ghana's secondary education ranking in the Legatum Prosperity Index. Firstly, issues related to policy implementation, such as the Free Senior High School (SHS) initiative, may have impacted the quality and accessibility of education. Challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, shortage of textbooks, and lack of essential resources like desks and chairs could have hindered the effectiveness of the education system.

Furthermore, socio-economic factors play a significant role in shaping educational outcomes. Poverty, inequality, and cultural attitudes towards education can create barriers to learning, particularly for marginalized groups. Gender disparities in education, for instance, may contribute to lower enrollment and completion rates among girls, affecting Ghana's overall education ranking.

Impact on National Development:

Ghana's ranking in the Legatum Prosperity Index reflects not only the state of its education system but also its broader development trajectory. Education is a fundamental driver of economic growth, social mobility, and national prosperity. A low ranking in secondary education suggests missed opportunities for human capital development and may hinder Ghana's ability to compete globally and achieve sustainable development goals.

Policy Recommendations:

To improve Ghana's secondary education ranking and overall prosperity, targeted interventions are necessary. Policy reforms should focus on improving the quality of education by addressing infrastructure gaps, ensuring the availability of textbooks and essential resources, and enhancing teacher training and capacity building.

Moreover, efforts to promote inclusivity and address socioeconomic disparities are critical. This may involve targeted support for vulnerable groups, such as scholarships for girls, investment in rural education infrastructure, and community engagement initiatives to foster a culture of learning and academic excellence.

Ghana's ranking of 137 out of 167 countries in the Legatum Prosperity Index for secondary education underscores the need for concerted action to strengthen the country's education system. By addressing challenges related to policy implementation, infrastructure, and socio-economic disparities, Ghana can unlock the full potential of its human capital and pave the way for sustainable development and prosperity for all its citizens.