The Government of Ghana is exploring the possibility of setting up new polytechnic institutions across all sixteen regions to strengthen technical and vocational education.
The initiative aims to bridge the gap between secondary and university education while equipping students with industry-relevant skills.
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu disclosed the plan during a meeting with the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) in Accra.
“There is the need for another layer to have a polytechnic in each region of Ghana to serve as a bridge between senior high school and university,” he stated.
“What do we do with employability and the industry connection? That’s the gap we’re aiming to fill,” he added.
The proposal has become necessary following the conversion of all former polytechnic institutions into technical universities. The Minister has tasked GTEC with developing a comprehensive plan for submission to the President.
“We want GTEC to provide the President with a blueprint outlining the possible approach and government will explore the feasibility of establishing a polytechnic in each of the sixteen regions. This will help expand access to higher education with a strong focus on employability and industry,” he emphasized.
Call for Realignment in University Training
Mr. Iddrisu also stressed the importance of aligning university education with job market demands.
“Our universities are sticking rigidly to their traditional mandates, focusing mainly on general academic training. Yet, there are ongoing complaints from industry and the private sector that graduates are not meeting workforce needs,” he noted.
“University education must address the manpower demands of the country, and we’ll rely on GTEC to help guide that process,” he assured.
Support for Persons with Disabilities
In a related development, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing free tertiary education for persons living with disabilities.
“I’ve set up a four-member committee, chaired by Deputy Minister Clement Apaak, to coordinate this effort. We’ll rely on GTEC and the Student Loan Trust Fund to ensure a stress-free, fee-free tertiary education experience for persons with disabilities,” he said.
“This is part of our drive to fulfill President Mahama’s pledge to all persons with disabilities,” Mr. Iddrisu added.
Concerns Over University Spending
Mr. Iddrisu also raised concerns regarding how universities are managing their Internally Generated Funds (IGF), calling for improved transparency and financial management.
“We must shine a light on how universities are using their IGF particularly whether those funds are going towards expanding access to quality education, such as the construction of residential halls and lecture theatres,” he stated.
He pointed out that some universities continue to claim financial constraints despite having unutilized funds.
“You’d be surprised that while some universities claim they lack money, they may have funds sitting idle in their accounts. These resources could be invested in hostels and other critical infrastructure instead of going unused,” he suggested.
