Sam Jonah Calls for Overhaul of Ghana’s Education System to Emphasize Skills and Moral Values
At the recent Graphic National Development Series in Accra, Sir Sam Jonah, a prominent Ghanaian businessman and Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast, called for a fundamental shift in Ghana’s education system. He advocated moving away from a grades-focused model toward a system that fosters leadership, innovation, and practical skills to drive economic and social transformation.
Jonah emphasized that Ghana needs “a new awakening” that prioritizes community, citizenship, and nation-building. According to him, schools should not merely prepare students to pass exams but should focus on building resilience, creativity, and problem-solving abilities essential in a competitive global market.
Criticizing the reliance on rote learning, Jonah highlighted the recent government initiative to distribute past exam papers to students, which he argued encourages memorization over understanding. “This decision formalizes our dependence on rote learning, sacrificing real comprehension and innovative thinking,” he noted. He warned that an education system that prioritizes memorization produces leaders who replicate outdated ideas rather than innovate, lowering the nation’s educational standards and future potential.
Jonah praised the government’s new primary school curriculum, which emphasizes practical skills rather than theoretical knowledge. He expressed hope that this shift would help young Ghanaians view education not as a means to escape responsibility but as a tool for tackling the nation’s challenges. Drawing from the words of former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt, he stressed the importance of moral education, cautioning that intellectual growth without ethical grounding could create societal risks. He argued that many of Ghana’s social issues stem not from a lack of intellect but from a decline in moral values and collective responsibility.
Jonah called for a “mindset of innovation” that can only be achieved through hands-on learning and ethical training from an early age. He urged educators, parents, and policymakers to instill values that foster accountability and integrity. Education, he argued, should be the foundation of moral and civic responsibility, preparing young people to be agents of progress. “Our system must be the first line of defense against moral decay, with children learning principles through real-world application, not just theoretical lessons,” he said.
Ato Afful, Managing Director of Graphic Communications Group Ltd., echoed Jonah’s sentiments. He emphasized that quality education is vital for sustainable national development and highlighted the need for an educational system built on truth and designed to meet the country’s development goals. Afful expressed hope that the Graphic National Development Series would drive policy discussions that lead to meaningful educational reforms.
Jonah concluded by stressing that building a nation of empowered minds requires integrating cultural values into education. With dedicated efforts from educators, parents, and government leaders, Ghana’s educational system can become a transformative force for holistic development.
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