Let’s Strengthen Safe, Inclusive School Environments – Dr. Apaak
By Maame Efua Kwaduah
Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, has emphasized the urgent need to better support adolescents across the country as part of Ghana’s long-term development priorities.
Delivering the keynote address at the national launch of the Education Plus Initiative at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra Dr. Apaak described the initiative as “a holistic and forward-looking framework designed to ensure that learners are not only present in school, but are protected, healthy, equipped with information, and empowered to succeed.”
He noted that the program brings together the work of the education, health, gender, youth and social protection sectors to build an environment in which adolescent particularly girls can thrive and realise their full potential.
Reflecting on Ghana’s educational progress over the past two decades, Dr. Apaak highlighted key achievements such as gender parity at the basic level, the Free Senior High School program, and the distribution of sanitary pads to girls in schools.
However, he acknowledged that several challenges persist. “Transition rates from junior high to senior high remain lower for girls in some regions. Learning outcomes are uneven. Social issues like early marriages, teenage pregnancies, gender-based violence and limiting stereotypes continue to hold many young people back,” he said.
According to him, the Education Plus Initiative complements Ghana’s Education Strategic Plan and aligns with the broader national development agenda.
He stressed that meaningful collaboration across sectors and active involvement of young people themselves is essential for truly empowering adolescents.
Dr. Apaak added that empowered young people can become catalysts for change within their families, communities, and the country at large.
Calling for concrete steps following the launch, he appealed: “Let us reinforce safe and inclusive school environments, broaden access to essential services, and ensure that every girl completes her education and enters adulthood with confidence.”
He reaffirmed the Ministry of Education’s commitment to fully implementing the program, stressing that its success depends on translating its promises from policy documents into action that directly improves the lives of adolescents.
The launch marks a major milestone in Ghana’s efforts to strengthen support systems for young people and address barriers that keep many girls from achieving their educational goals.
