GCTU Congregation: Inclusive education is national strength, not charity - Apaak

Deputy Minister of Education Dr Clement Apaak has urged graduates of the Ghana Communication Technology University to view inclusive education as a pillar of national strength rather than an act of charity.

Addressing the 35th Congregation of GCTU in Accra on Saturday, November 29, on behalf of the Minister for Education, Dr Apaak said Ghana’s development depends on innovation that expands access and ensures that no community or learner is left behind.

According to him, the country’s rapid adoption of Fintech, artificial intelligence, and digital tools must translate into fair opportunities for all.

“Our progress must be equitable,” Dr Apaak noted, emphasising that innovation must function as a bridge connecting rural communities to global opportunities.

He added, “Technology should encourage girls in STEM, support learners with disabilities, and make knowledge accessible with dignity.”

Dr Apaak highlighted milestones such as Free SHS, the no-fee-stress policy, and free education for persons living with disabilities, but insisted that Ghana must reinforce its commitment to inclusive education.

“This is not charity,” he said. “It is a strategy for national strength.”

He identified persistent barriers facing rural learners, girls from poor households, and persons with disabilities, stressing that government interventions must deliberately address these inequalities.

“Some communities lack the infrastructure needed to compete,” he explained. “We cannot build a digital economy that leaves them out.”

Dr Apaak outlined key government commitments, including investments in digital infrastructure for underserved districts, accessible curricula with local language support, and assistive technologies tailored to learners with special needs.

He also pointed to targeted teacher training and strengthened public-private partnerships to ensure wider digital access. “We are expanding connectivity and devices so that opportunity is not determined by geography or disability,” he said.

Turning to the graduating class, Dr Apaak encouraged them to adopt three guiding principles as they enter the world of work.

He urged them to think inclusively, build sustainably, and support others along their professional journey. “Ask yourselves who might be left behind by your design,” he said. “Let your conscience direct your creativity.”

He praised parents, guardians, and lecturers for their sacrifices and commended the GCTU administration for shaping the next generation of technology leaders.

Addressing the graduates, he said, “This celebration is a solemn promise that you will use your skills to uplift communities and help build a Ghana where prosperity is genuinely shared.”

Dr Apaak ended by assuring the country that the future remains secure when innovation is rooted in fairness and national responsibility.