Illiteracy and inaccessibility of quality education are two significant challenges faced by Ghana’s education system.
Illiteracy remains a problem in Ghana, particularly in rural areas, where access to education and educational resources is limited. According to UNESCO, in 2020, the adult literacy rate in Ghana was estimated to be 76.6%, with significant regional and gender disparities. The government of Ghana has implemented numerous initiatives aimed at reducing illiteracy rates, including adult literacy programs, community education initiatives, and school feeding programs, but progress has been slow.
In addition to illiteracy, access to quality education is also a major challenge in Ghana. Many schools lack basic infrastructure such as adequate classrooms, libraries, and computers, making it difficult for students to learn and access educational resources. Additionally, there is a shortage of qualified teachers, particularly in rural areas. This shortage is compounded by low teacher salaries, which make it difficult to attract and retain qualified teachers.
To address these challenges, the government of Ghana has implemented some education reforms, including the introduction of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which aims to provide free secondary education for all Ghanaian students. The government has also invested in infrastructure development, including the construction of new schools and the rehabilitation of existing ones. Efforts are also being made to improve the quality of teacher training and to attract and retain qualified teachers.
Despite these efforts, more needs to be done to address the issues of illiteracy and inaccessibility of quality education in Ghana. This includes expanding access to education in rural areas, improving teacher salaries and working conditions, and investing in educational infrastructure and resources. By addressing these challenges, Ghana can provide its citizens with the education and skills they need to thrive and contribute to the country’s development.