Ghana, known for its warm hospitality and economic and social stability, is an excellent destination for families. If you are planning to move to Ghana with your family or you have just relocated, understanding how education in Ghana works is crucial for a smooth transition and the academic success of your children.
Let’s take a look at the Ghanaian education system and its unique strengths and challenges and available resources so you can prepare and ensure your child’s educational experience.
Education in Ghana
The education system in Ghana is highly valued, and the government is committed to improving access and quality across the nation. The educational landscape in Ghana has evolved in recent years, with an emphasis on inclusivity, educational reforms, and programs aimed at providing quality learning environments for all children.
Ghana’s education system offers families various schooling options, each tailored to meet different educational needs and budgets.
Types of Schools in Ghana
Ghana has three main types of schools that families can choose from, depending on preferences and financial capabilities:
Public Schools
Public schools in Ghana are funded by the government and offer free education, making them accessible to a large portion of the population. While public schools are widely available, the resources and facilities may vary, especially in rural areas. Nevertheless, they are popular among Ghanaian families for providing basic education at little to no cost.
Private Schools
Private schools in Ghana are known for offering structured and sometimes higher-quality education than public schools. They often have better resources, smaller class sizes, and more personalized teaching.
However, these schools are fee-paying, which may limit accessibility for some families. Private schools are particularly popular among families seeking a rigorous academic environment.
International Schools
International schools in Accra, typically following the British or American curricula, are available for families seeking a familiar education system. These schools cater primarily to expatriates and wealthy Ghanaians and offer a multicultural environment.
The international curricula in these schools allow for a smoother transition for children of expatriate families and prepare them for further education outside Ghana if needed.
Structure of Ghana’s Education System
The education system in Ghana is divided into three main stages:
- Basic Education (Ages 4-14): This is a compulsory education phase covering kindergarten, primary, and junior high school. The government provides free education for this stage, with the aim of ensuring foundational learning for all children.
- Senior High School (Ages 14-18): Senior high school focuses on academic and vocational training. Students are prepared for tertiary education or entry into the workforce. Many senior high schools also offer boarding facilities, which can be a practical option for families in rural areas.
- Tertiary Education: Tertiary education in Ghana includes universities, colleges, and polytechnics, offering degree and diploma programs. Ghana has a number of well-regarded institutions, such as the University of Ghana and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, which attract students from across West Africa.
After-School Activities
Extracurricular activities play a significant role in family life in Ghana, for local kids, sports like football especially. After school hours, if you walk around your neighbourhood, at some point you would surely stumble upon a park and see kids playing.
Many International schools provide a variety of options in sports, arts, and social clubs, which enrich children’s experiences outside the classroom.
Galaxy International School is one of the many International Schools in Accra
Sports
Football is extremely popular, with numerous clubs and facilities where children can participate. Other popular sports include basketball, tennis, swimming, and martial arts, providing options for children of all ages and skill levels. Here is an example for the American International School, offering Taekwondo as one of their after school activities.
Music and Dance
Ghana has a rich tradition of music and dance, and many schools and community centers offer these types of classes. Little Explorers Montessori School offers Zumba for example!
- Art and Craft: Many art and craft programs focus on creativity. Check out Petits Scholars performing arts after school activity.
- Scouting and Clubs: Scouting organizations, including Boy Scouts and Girl Guides, are available for children and teens interested in building leadership and teamwork skills. These clubs also foster a sense of community and responsibility among participants.
Parenting Resources
It is clear that the offer for children’s activities in Accra is wide, but how about the parents? There are numerous ways for parents to access valuable information and build community connections. Here are a few we suggest:
Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs): PTAs are a popular forum for parents and teachers to collaborate on school-related issues. These associations allow parents to engage directly in their children’s educational journey. We suggest you speak with the school directly about this to see if this is something they offer.
Parenting Workshops: Many community centers and private organizations offer workshops on child development, discipline, and mental well-being. These sessions are particularly useful for new parents or those looking to enhance their parenting skills.
Support Groups: For families of children with special needs or single-parent households, support groups provide a safe space to share experiences and resources. Such groups help parents navigate unique challenges and connect with others facing similar circumstances.
Online Communities: Online platforms like Facebook and parenting forums are widely used in Ghana, especially by expatriate parents. These communities offer a wealth of information, ranging from school recommendations to tips for navigating life in Ghana. Check out this Instagram account which may be useful.
With a proper understanding of the education in Ghanaian systems, backed by positive plans to secure quality for one’s children, such arrangements guarantee your family smooth sailing and a prosperous career ahead in Ghana. Provided that everything is duly scheduled, you can turn your relocation into a rewarding experience for your entire family.
