Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, has underscored the critical need to empower adolescents nationwide as part of efforts to advance Ghana’s development agenda.
Delivering the keynote address at the National Launch of the Education Plus Initiative at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, Dr. Apaak described the programme as “an integrated and transformative approach that ensures learners are not only in school, but are safe, healthy, informed, supported, and empowered.”
He explained that the initiative harmonises the efforts of the education, health, gender equality, youth development and social protection sectors to create an environment in which adolescents—especially girls—can thrive and reach their full potential.
Reflecting on Ghana’s gains in education over the last two decades, Dr. Apaak cited achievements including gender parity at the basic level, the Free Senior High School policy, and the provision of sanitary pads to girls in schools.
However, he acknowledged that gaps remain. “Transition rates from junior high to senior high school are still lower for girls in some regions. Learning outcomes remain uneven. Social factors such as early marriages, teenage pregnancies, gender-based violence and harmful stereotypes continue to undermine our collective efforts to transform futures through education,” he stated.
Dr. Apaak emphasised that the Education Plus Initiative is intended to complement Ghana’s Education Strategic Plan and aligns firmly with the broader national development agenda.
“Most importantly, it reminds us that empowering adolescents requires collaboration across sectors and meaningful engagement with young people themselves,” he noted.
He stressed that empowered adolescents are capable of becoming agents of change who can transform their own lives, their communities, and ultimately the nation.
Calling for concrete action following the launch, Dr. Apaak urged stakeholders: “Let us strengthen safe and inclusive school environments, expand access to comprehensive services, and ensure that every girl can complete her education and step confidently into adulthood.”
He reaffirmed the Ministry of Education’s commitment to fully implementing the initiative, adding: “Together, we can translate this initiative from policy into practice and make its promise a lived reality for every adolescent in Ghana.”
The launch of the Education Plus Initiative marks a significant step in Ghana’s coordinated efforts to empower adolescents and remove barriers to education, particularly for young girls.
Invest royalties into science and mathematics education – Bolewura Kutugefeso urges chiefs
