The Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum (MP), has endorsed an initiative by the Zongo Development Fund (ZoDF), for the inclusion of Zongo communities in the STEM – IT education policy in Ghana.
The Minister stated that the current policy is aimed at transforming the educational system through a “paradigm shift from the 19th to the 21st century’’ and involve all communities, including the historically marginalized and deprived Zongo communities.
Dr. Adutwum conveyed his endorsement at a meeting with the Chief Executive Officer and management of the Zongo Development Fund, at the Ministry of Education.
The Zongo Development Fund, as part of its mandate on inclusive development through education, initiated proposals to include Zongo communities in the implementation of the STEM-IT policy, taking cognizance of the peculiar needs and challenges confronting Zongos.
The comprehensive proposals from ZoDF focused on programme implementation framework; collaboration with key stakeholders; project development initiatives and infrastructure development.
Additionally, the initiative dwelled upon relevance to National Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) policy, convergence with SDGs and the National Development Planning Commission’s objectives.
The proposal also emphasized the indispensable roles of the youth in Zongo communities, traditional authorities, and Civil Society Organisations in educational sector in the implementation of the STEM-IT policy.
The education minister confirmed the ministry’s readiness to provide technical support for the implementation of the programme through its STEM advisor, who will liaise with the Zongo Development Fund.
He narrated several interventions he has spearheaded to upgrade, expand and construct new educational institutions in Zongo communities.
It is envisaged that the implementation of the programme would develop appropriate infrastructure for STEM Integrated Technical SHS, prepare students for the job market and STEM- based tertiary education, as well as build and strengthen school/community/industry partnerships and improve teacher management capacity for the STEM-IT SHS programme, among others.
Dr. Arafat Sulemana Abdulai, Chief Executive Officer, ZoDF conveyed the Fund’s gratitude to the education minister for his proactive engagement, recommendations and support.
Source: WadataOnline.com/Muhammed Faisel Mustapha