Mahama criticizes govt for neglecting textbook distribution post-curriculum change
The flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has criticized the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) for its failure to provide textbooks to students, despite revising the curriculum for basic education several years ago.
Mahama argues that this failure is impeding educational equity, stating concerns over the inadequate provision of school materials for basic students.
Speaking at the launch of the Ghana National Association of Private Schools Week, themed “2024 Elections: The Private Education Manifesto,” Mr. Mahama emphasized the importance of addressing the disparities in educational opportunities.
He remarked, “I believe I am who I am because my father gave me a good foundation to attend Achimota Primary School to become what I have become.”
“But you cannot say so for a child in the rural school who probably doesn’t get the same opportunity. And so we need to look at the equity in the education system and see how we can improve investment in poor rural schools. Some of them have no chairs and curriculum has changed. Four years now, the curriculum has changed yet no textbooks are available for students and teachers,” he quizzed.
Stakeholders in the education sector have long been urging the government to ensure the availability of textbooks for students and teachers to facilitate effective teaching and learning.
Responding to these concerns, the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, previously stated that there were ample textbooks and copies available for all regions. He assured that the ministry was collaborating with Regional Heads of Stores to address any deficits in textbook supply.
