World Bank Secures $117m For Education Sector

– Additional funding brings total investment to $335m

Story: Christabel Oboshie ANNAN, Accra

THE World Bank has secured an additional $117 million grant to support Ghana’s education sector under the Ghana Accountability for Learning Outcomes Project (GALOP).

The additional $117 million funding, sourced from the Global Partnership for Education and other partners such as the Jacobs Foundation, brings the total investment in GALOP to $335 million.

GALOP is a flagship initiative aimed at improving learning outcomes, particularly in foundational literacy and numeracy, and strengthening accountability in the education sector.

The new funding is expected to enhance the project’s reach and effectiveness, benefiting thousands of students across the country.

This was announced by the World Bank Country Director for Ghana, Robert Taliercio, during his visit to St. Thomas Presby Primary School in Osu and Father Campbell SVD Center in Weija, both beneficiaries of the initiative.

The Director for Ghana stated that this funding is a grant rather than a loan, ensuring that Ghana’s financial burden remains unchanged.

“This is important because of Ghana’s continued need to strengthen macroeconomic stability and maintain fiscal consolidation to bring debt levels to sustainable levels,” he noted.

With this expanded financial support, GALOP is set to reach 100% of public primary schools in Ghana, a milestone Mr. Taliercio described as a significant step toward ensuring impact at scale.

“We are very excited that we can now support learning in every single public primary school in the country.”

The World Bank Country Director for Ghana, noted the importance of education in Ghana’s economic development, stressing that schools play a crucial role in equipping students with the skills of the future.

“Education is absolutely critical for Ghana’s economic development. The skills of the future are being taught here and built every day in these rooms around your lovely school,” he stated.

He further expressed enthusiasm for the GALOP initiative, noting its strong reputation within the World Bank.

Government’s Commitment to Education Reform

Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu during the visit, reiterated government’s commitment to improving foundational literacy and numeracy.

He stressed the importance of blending local languages with English to ensure students transition smoothly into English proficiency while maintaining their cultural identity.

“It’s part of our development to ensure that students learn in a way that allows them to stand confidently on their own while mastering the English language,” he said.

He announced that government, through GALOP, will roll out a National Standardized Test in the 2025/2026 academic year to better prepare students for national examinations.

“Students from KG to JHS often lack exposure to structured exams before the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), which affects their performance. The National Standardized Test will assess students at Primary 2, Primary 4, Primary 6, and JHS 2 to ensure they are adequately prepared for major exams,” he stated.

He further reassured teachers of training and capacity-building programmes to equip them with the necessary skills for effective implementation of the new assessment framework.

Investing in Ghana’s Educational Future

The Minister expressed concern that 32 years after the promulgation of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, the country has yet to fully achieve Free, Compulsory, Universal Basic Education (FCUBE).

He pledged that government will increase investments in basic education to close this gap and strengthen the foundation for free secondary education.

“Our priority is learning outcomes. With all the investments we are making, we must ensure that students grow to become better leaders in the future. We will continue to work towards achieving FCUBE and enhancing access to quality education for all,” he assured.

The delegation first visited St. Thomas Presby Primary School, where the World Bank Country Director for Ghana, engaged with students and teachers, expressing admiration for their dedication to learning.

He encouraged students to remain focused on their studies, noting the long-term benefits of education.

“I know you’re studying very hard, and GALOP is helping both you and your teachers. Please keep studying, even when you’re tired or bored. Education is crucial for your future, your family’s future, and the future of Ghana,” he urged.

At Father Campbell SVD Center, which supports underprivileged children, Taliercio noted the World Bank’s mission to eliminate poverty, drawing a connection between the organization’s work and that of faith-based institutions.

“Our goal is to create a world without poverty, and in many ways, our mission aligns with that of the church. We are here to support you because education is the foundation of development,” he stated.

He acknowledged the dedication of social workers, educators, and government officials in driving educational reforms under GALOP, commending their efforts in improving learning outcomes. The visit concluded with appreciation to the World Bank team for their continuous support, as stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that Ghana’s education system meets international standards and equips students with the skills needed for the future.