Education Minister joins Adukrom chief to open KGL-refurbished basic school

In a landmark event highlighting the synergy between government, traditional authority, and private enterprise, the Gloria Boatema Dadey–Nifa Basic School in Adukrom in the Eastern Region, was officially commissioned on Friday, 9 January 2026.

The refurbished institution, spearheaded by the KGL Foundation, represents a significant boost to educational infrastructure in the Okere District, providing modern learning facilities for the community’s children.

The commissioning ceremony was graced by the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, Osuodumgya Otutu Ababio V, Chief of Adukrom, and key officials of the KGL Group, including Executive Chairman Alex Apau Dadey and the Group CEO.

Traditional leaders, education advocates, teachers, parents, and students were also in attendance to witness the milestone event, which symbolizes a partnership between tradition, government, and private enterprise in advancing quality education.

Delivering the keynote address, Osuodumgya Otutu Ababio V emphasised that the school is not merely a physical structure but a testament to the community’s commitment to nurturing the next generation.

“The name Gloria Boatema Dadey School will forever be associated with learning, discipline, and purpose,” he said, urging teachers to focus on shaping both the minds and character of their pupils.

He further called on parents and guardians to support the school’s efforts, describing education as a shared responsibility critical to the community’s development.

In his address, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu seized the occasion to announce a major policy initiative: the Government of Ghana has declared that education for persons with special needs will be entirely free, starting this year.

He explained that the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) will provide GHS 100 million in 2026 to support this programme, covering tuition, administrative costs, and essential assistive devices.

The minister highlighted the long-term economic rationale behind the move, noting that early investment in foundational education is critical for national development.

“Learning for special needs students under President Mahama will be free and adequately funded by the Ghana Education Trust Fund,” Mr. Iddrisu stated. “We are committed to repositioning, reprioritising, and redirecting resources to ensure inclusive education, giving every child the tools to succeed regardless of circumstance.”

The refurbishment of Gloria Boatema Dadey–Nifa Basic School is part of a broader infrastructure strategy aimed at improving educational access and learning conditions across the Eastern Region.

The upgraded facilities include modern classrooms, learning aids, and supportive spaces designed to foster an inclusive and interactive learning environment.

The commissioning also aligns with government efforts to strengthen the entire education sector.

Minister Iddrisu noted that the administration has secured a US$200 million World Bank facility, with plans to scale it to US$250 million, aimed at upgrading selected Category B and C Senior High Schools to Category A status.

This initiative will enhance learning conditions, address capacity constraints, and expand access to quality secondary education nationwide.

Expressing optimism about the school’s future impact, the KGL Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to education as a key driver of social and economic development.

The foundation’s involvement, in collaboration with traditional authorities and the government, reflects a growing recognition that community-led investment in education is essential for creating well-rounded, capable citizens.

The event concluded with a formal handover of the refurbished facilities, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Gloria Boatema Dadey–Nifa Basic School.

Osuodumgya Otutu Ababio V encapsulated the sentiment of the day: “When we invest in education, we strengthen the very foundation of our society. A well-educated community is a peaceful community. A knowledgeable people are a prosperous people. May this school flourish, and may it raise leaders who will honour this land and serve Ghana with distinction.”