Rev John Ntim Fordjour Criticises Government’s National Education Forum as a Waste of Resources
Former Deputy Minister of Education, Rev John Ntim Fordjour, has strongly criticized the government’s proposed National Education Forum, labeling it an unnecessary expenditure of Ghana’s valuable resources. The forum, set to begin on Tuesday, February 18, and conclude with a two-day validation conference on Thursday, February 27, in Accra, has sparked debate about its relevance and effectiveness.
Fordjour’s remarks, made during an interview on Channel One Newsroom, highlight concerns about the forum’s redundancy and the need for the government to focus on implementing existing education policies.
What is the National Education Forum?
The National Education Forum is a government initiative aimed at engaging stakeholders in discussions about the future of Ghana’s education system. The engagements will kick off in Ho, the Volta Regional capital, before moving to other regions. The forum is expected to culminate in a two-day conference in Accra, where key findings and recommendations will be validated.
However, Fordjour questions the necessity of this initiative, arguing that the government already has a clear roadmap for education reform.
Fordjour’s Critique: A Redundant Exercise?
In his interview, Fordjour emphasised that the forum is unnecessary, given the existence of a comprehensive education strategic plan developed in 2018. This plan, which aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), was created with input from education experts, civil society organisations (CSOs), and international development partners.
“What they are going to do is nothing new. It is going to be a waste of time and waste of Ghana’s precious resources,” Fordjour stated. He urged the government to focus on implementing the existing plan rather than convening a new forum.
Public Expectations: Key Education Reforms
Fordjour highlighted several key expectations from the public, including:
- Continuation and extension of the Free SHS policy to private schools
- Payment of first-year fees for tertiary students in public institutions
- Cancellation of the double-track system
He stressed that Ghanaians are eager to see these promises reflected in the upcoming budget statement. “They want to see how that finds expression in the budget statement that is going to be presented,” he noted.
Call to Action: Implement Existing Plans
Fordjour called on the Mahama administration to prioritize the implementation of the 2018-2030 education strategic plan. He argued that the government should focus on delivering its campaign promises rather than spending resources on redundant forums.
“We do not need a national education forum to be able to set a vision for President Mahama,” he asserted. “What is needed now is action, not more discussions.”
Why This Matters for Ghana’s Education System
Ghana’s education system faces numerous challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, teacher shortages, and funding gaps. While forums and discussions can provide valuable insights, critics like Fordjour argue that the focus should be on actionable solutions.