My cousin called me last week, panicking. Her daughter had been admitted to a top university in Ghana, but the tuition fees were way beyond what their family could afford. “Is there any scholarship I don’t know about?” she asked desperately. That conversation reminded me that navigating Ghana’s education system requires staying updated on everything from policy changes to scholarship deadlines, exam schedules to school reforms.
Here’s the reality: education updates in Ghana come fast and often, and missing crucial information can cost you opportunities, delay your child’s admission, or leave money on the table. Whether you’re a parent planning your child’s future, a student looking for financial aid, or an educator trying to stay current with policy changes, understanding what’s happening in Ghana’s education sector isn’t optional anymore.
From groundbreaking digital initiatives transforming how we teach to scholarship programs that could fund your entire education, from exam date changes to teacher recruitment issues, Ghana’s education landscape is evolving rapidly. Let me walk you through the most important education updates in Ghana right now, covering schools, exams, and scholarships that could change your educational journey.
Important Disclaimer: The information in this article is current as of November 2025 and is intended as a general guide. Dates, deadlines, requirements, and policies can change. Always verify all information directly with official sources including WAEC, Ghana Education Service, Ghana Scholarships Secretariat, MTN Foundation, and respective universities before making any decisions or taking action. Visit official websites and contact relevant institutions to confirm current details.
Latest Policy Changes and School Reforms
Digital Learning Transformation Takes Center Stage
The Ministry of Education launched the Foundational Learning Action Tracker (FLAT) to improve teaching and learning outcomes at the basic education level, developed in collaboration with UNICEF and the Hempel Foundation. This isn’t just another government program; it’s a game changer for how Ghana tracks and improves foundational learning.
FLAT is a digital monitoring platform that provides data on Ghana’s progress in foundational learning, aligned with national education goals and the Sustainable Development Goals. What does this mean for your child? Schools will now have better tools to identify learning gaps early and address them before students fall too far behind.
Ghana renewed its commitment to promoting digital literacy, integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI), and strengthening foundational learning following the successful conclusion of the 2025 Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA) Triennale. The country is positioning itself as a leader in educational technology across Africa.
Mother Tongue Education Gets Major Push
The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, issued a directive to the Ghana Education Service to ensure that basic school teachers across the country immediately begin using local Ghanaian languages as part of the medium for teaching and learning. This is huge. For decades, educators have known that children learn better when taught in languages they understand, but implementation has been inconsistent.
School for Life commended this impressive move, which came at a crucial time in Ghana’s education journey and responded directly to long-standing advocacy from civil society organizations. If you have kids in lower primary, expect to see more Twi, Ga, Ewe, Dagbani, and other local languages in their classrooms.
School Feeding Program Restructuring
All Ghana School Feeding caterers have had their contracts terminated as the government restructures the program. While this might sound alarming, it’s part of broader reforms to improve service delivery and ensure accountability. New contracts will be issued after proper vetting processes.
Teacher Recruitment and Education Service Updates
2023 Teacher Trainees Demand Action
Graduates from the 2023 batch of Colleges of Education threatened to hit the streets by November 10 if government fails to give a definite timeline for their recruitment into the Ghana Education Service. These trainees have completed national service, passed the Ghana Teacher Licensure Examination, and waited nearly two years without posting.
This situation highlights a critical challenge facing Ghana’s education sector: we’re training teachers but struggling to absorb them into the system due to budget constraints. If you’re considering teacher training, understand that employment isn’t automatic anymore.
Study Leave Teachers Return to Service
The Ghana Education Service announced the opening of an online posting window for staff returning from study leave with pay, with the filing window open from Tuesday, November 4, 2025, to Friday, November 7, 2025. Teachers who pursued further studies can now complete their online posting forms through the GES portal.
President Directs Promotions
President Mahama directed the Ghana Education Service to promote all eligible deputy directors. This move addresses long-standing grievances about stagnation in career progression within the education service.
Exam Updates and Academic Calendar Changes
WAEC Shifts BECE Dates
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) shifted the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) dates to June 10-17 due to the Eid-ul-Adha holiday. Parents and students should note these new dates for proper preparation.
If your child is writing BECE this year, mark June 10-17 in your calendar. Don’t rely on old schedules; this shift affects preparation timelines and revision plans.
Senior High School Admissions Portal Active
The 2025/26 SHS admissions portal remains active with essential steps, required documents, and online payment instructions available. Students who completed BECE need to monitor this portal closely for placement information.
Scholarship Opportunities You Can’t Miss
Ghana Scholarships Secretariat Programs
The Ghana Scholarships Secretariat, established in 1960, operates under the Office of the President with the core mandate to award scholarships to brilliant but needy Ghanaians. The Secretariat offers several categories:
Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded to high-performing students based on academic excellence and leadership potential at the tertiary level across Ghana.
Study Abroad Programs: Provides funding for Ghanaian students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies abroad in strategic disciplines, with the goal of developing human capital for national development.
Local Support Scholarships: Covers tuition and other academic-related costs for students attending accredited institutions within Ghana, focused on reducing financial barriers to education.
Application Timeline and Process
Continuing students should apply online between 1st April to 15th May of each academic year, while new students who had late admission should apply between 1st to 30th September. Mark these dates now if you’re planning to apply.
The process includes:
- Online application submission
- Aptitude test during application
- Panel interviews in your selected district
- Information forwarded to institutions for confirmation
- Electronic award letters issued to successful applicants
International Scholarship Opportunities
GREAT Scholarships UK: For the 2025-26 academic year, postgraduate scholarships are available to students from Ghana at universities including Brunel University, Durham University, Edge Hill University, and Kingston University London.
DAAD Scholarships Germany: Ghanaian students can access various DAAD scholarships for master’s and PhD studies. Germany offers tuition-free education at most public universities, with DAAD covering living expenses.
Chevening Scholarships: The prestigious UK government scholarship funds Ghanaian students to pursue fully funded master’s degrees, covering tuition, travel, and living expenses.
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: Provides full scholarships for talented but economically disadvantaged students, covering tuition, accommodation, and stipends.
MTN Ghana Foundation Scholarship
Application submission runs from February 1, 2025, to May 31, 2025, designed for Year one Undergraduate Students and continuing education students at any public higher institution in Ghana. Applicants must be Ghanaian, brilliant but needy, and demonstrate good conduct and excellent academic results.
GETFund Scholarships
The Ghana Education Trust Fund offers financial aid to students in public universities and technical institutions. This merit-based and needs-based scholarship prioritizes high-performing students with financial difficulties. Applications are processed through the Ghana Scholarships Secretariat portal.
University and Tertiary Education Updates
University Rankings Boost Ghana’s Profile
The University of Cape Coast consolidated its position as the top-ranked university in both Ghana and West Africa in the 2026 Times Higher Education rankings, while the University of Ghana achieved major success in key research environment areas.
Curriculum Review Initiatives
The Education Minister announced ambitious curriculum review plans covering KG to Primary 6. Additionally, SHS 2 students will learn one major foreign language under new curriculum reforms, expanding language education beyond English and French.
Mathematics Curriculum for Blind Students
Government is developing a specialized mathematics curriculum for blind students, demonstrating commitment to inclusive education and ensuring students with disabilities receive quality, adapted education.
Key Education Statistics and Priorities
| Category | Update | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Learning | FLAT platform launched | Improved tracking of foundational learning |
| Language Policy | Local languages in basic schools | Better learning outcomes for young children |
| Teacher Employment | 2023 graduates awaiting posting | Recruitment timeline uncertainty |
| BECE Exams | June 10-17, 2025 | Adjusted for religious holiday |
| Scholarship Applications | April-May for continuing students | Clear timeline for financial aid |
| University Rankings | UCC leads Ghana and West Africa | Enhanced international recognition |
| Study Abroad | Multiple international programs | Increased opportunities for Ghanaians |
How to Stay Updated on Education Changes
Official Sources:
- Ghana Education Service website (ges.gov.gh)
- Ministry of Education announcements
- Ghana Scholarships Secretariat portal (scholarships.gov.gh)
Application Portals:
- GETFund Scholarship Portal (scholarships.getfund.gov.gh)
- MTN Ghana Foundation Scholarship (scholarship.mtn.com.gh)
- SHS Admissions Portal
Social Media: Follow official GES and Ministry of Education pages on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for real-time updates.
Practical Tips for Parents and Students
For Scholarship Seekers:
- Start applications early; don’t wait until deadlines
- Apply for multiple scholarships to increase chances
- Prepare all required documents in advance
- Write compelling motivation letters explaining your need and goals
- Practice for aptitude tests covering math, English, and general knowledge
For Parents:
- Monitor exam schedule changes through official channels
- Ensure children have updated learning materials
- Support mother tongue learning at home
- Stay informed about policy changes affecting your child’s school
For Teachers:
- Complete online posting forms within specified windows
- Pursue professional development opportunities
- Adapt to new digital learning platforms
- Implement local language instruction policies
Looking Ahead: Future of Education in Ghana
Ghana’s commitment to digital transformation, foundational learning, and inclusive education positions the country as a leader in African education. The integration of AI, emphasis on local languages, and expansion of scholarship opportunities signal positive changes ahead.
However, challenges remain: teacher unemployment despite shortages, budget constraints affecting service delivery, and infrastructure gaps in rural areas. Addressing these requires coordinated efforts from government, civil society, and communities.
What education update matters most to you right now? Are you applying for scholarships this year? Share your questions and experiences in the comments below. And if you found these education updates in Ghana helpful, share this article with parents, students, and educators who need this information.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ghana Education
When do scholarship applications open in Ghana?
Continuing students should apply for Ghana government scholarships online between 1st April to 15th May of each academic year, while new students with late admission should apply between 1st to 30th September. The MTN Ghana Foundation Scholarship application runs from February 1, 2025, to May 31, 2025. International scholarships like GREAT Scholarships UK and DAAD have varying deadlines, typically between October and March for programs starting the following academic year.
What are the latest education policy changes in Ghana?
The Ministry of Education launched the Foundational Learning Action Tracker (FLAT), a digital monitoring platform providing data on Ghana’s progress in foundational learning. Minister Haruna Iddrisu directed the Ghana Education Service to ensure basic school teachers immediately begin using local Ghanaian languages as the medium for teaching and learning. Additionally, all Ghana School Feeding caterers had contracts terminated for program restructuring, and curriculum reviews are underway for KG through Primary 6.
How can I apply for government scholarships in Ghana?
Visit the Ghana Scholarships Secretariat portal at scholarships.gov.gh to apply online. You’ll need your admission letter from a recognized public institution, Ghana Card or passport, academic transcripts, completed online application form, and a one-page motivation letter. After submitting your application, you’ll take an online aptitude test and potentially attend panel interviews. Successful applicants receive electronic award letters, and payments go directly to respective institutions.
When is the 2025 BECE examination?
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) shifted the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) dates to June 10-17 due to the Eid-ul-Adha holiday. Students and parents should use these adjusted dates for preparation planning. Always check the official WAEC website for any further updates or changes to the examination schedule.
What international scholarships are available for Ghanaian students?
GREAT Scholarships UK offers postgraduate scholarships for 2025-26 at universities including Brunel University, Durham University, Edge Hill University, Kingston University London, and others. DAAD Scholarships provide funding for master’s and PhD studies in Germany with tuition-free education and living expense coverage. Chevening Scholarships offer fully funded master’s degrees in the UK. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides comprehensive funding including tuition, accommodation, and stipends for talented but economically disadvantaged students.
Sources:
- Ghana Education Service Official Website – Official announcements, policies, and teacher recruitment updates
- Ghana Scholarships Secretariat – Comprehensive scholarship information and application portals
- Ghanaian Times Education Coverage – Current education news including policy changes and reforms
Verification Reminder: Always confirm scholarship deadlines, exam dates, admission requirements, and application procedures directly with the relevant official organizations before proceeding. Information presented here is for guidance purposes only and should not replace official communication from institutions.
