Ghanaian education: Its relevance for Ghana in transition

Education in Ghana has not helped the country evolve from a colonialized British possession into an independent progressive entity in the industrialized world. The study investigated the status, goals, and conditions of education in Ghana today, and the relevance of Ghanaian education to the developmental needs of the country. As a result of the investigation, the researcher also would make recommendations for reforming education in Ghana so that it might take a more effective role in the shaping of the country's history.; Methodology. A field study approach was utilized, with data collected based on three categories: traditional value systems, status and development of education in Ghana, and the responsibility of government. The researcher encountered professors, principals, government and business leaders, and cultural leaders. The researcher attended cultural activities and consulted government documents to understand what is happening to the country as a whole. Interviews were recorded and taped. The researcher played back the tape and went over the notes with the participants to ensure the accuracy of the facts. The information was then analyzed according to the categories of investigation and relevant theories.; Summary. Respondents generally felt that education has failed the nation. Students are not able to apply their learning to the needs of their country, and they are strangers in their own culture. The schools exist apart from the communities, and education has benefited only the privileged few. Although the government has made many previous attempts at educational reform, education has remained within the constraints of the British mold. Educational reform is needed so that the schools produce not only civil servants, but also the variety of skilled personnel needed to develop the country's resources.; Implications. Both the content and the process of education must be revised to meet the country's workforce and leadership needs, and to help students become proud citizens aware of their national heritage. The quality of education must be improved through other means as well: quality of teaching, standard of living for teachers, and administrative structures and attitudes.