Schools urged to devote more attention to early childhood development

Heads of educational institutions, teachers and other stakeholders in the education sector have been called upon to dedicate much more attention to early childhood development and education in the country.

In this vein, the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has decided to establish a research fund which would enable both tutors and students embark on research projects to address issues on early childhood development in Ghana.

Professor Domwini Kuupole, Vice-Chancellor of UCC made the call on Monday when he met a twelve-member delegation known as the “Faculty Learning Community” from the Kennesaw State University (KSU) in the United State of America (USA), led by the President of KSU, its Vice-Provost as well as Professors and Heads of Departments, at Cape Coast.

The visit was part of KSU’s ‘Year of Ghana’ programme which is celebrated in the School where students of KSU study and get to know more about the culture and other aspects of Ghana.

Prof Kuupole expressed worry about the lack of expertise on the part of service providers in handling early childhood education.

He said UCC would come up with training sessions where trainees and practicing teachers would be ‘moulded’ to properly handle students at the early childhood stages in order for the students to be well prepared for tertiary education.

The VC stressed the need for faculty collaborative researches as well as faculty and student exchanges between the UCC and KSU in order for the world views of both sides to be expanded academically, socially and culturally for them to also have multiple exposures.

He was happy about the relationships that exist between both Universities over the past 14 years and was hopeful it would be developed and strengthened over the years to come.

Dr Daniel Papp, President of KSU, said some projects were underway between his University and UCC which include exchange programmes among both students and lecturers and gave the assurance that the relationship between them would be strengthened and maintained.

Dr Ikechukwu Ujeke, a Professor in early childhood education at KSU, said there was the need for students to be taught what they need to know in schools in order for them not to be left wanting when they go out to find jobs after completion of school.

Dr Samuel Abaidoo, Coordinator of the ‘Year of Ghana’ programme, explained that a whole academic year is dedicated towards this programme where Ghanaian tutors and traditional leaders among others give talks and lectures to students at KSU to enable them have a better knowledge and understanding of Ghana.

The team later met with Deans and Heads of Departments and faculties of the UCC.