Education Minister Proposes Nationwide ‘Our Day’ for Cultural Dress in Schools
Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has proposed the introduction of a nationwide cultural dress day in Ghanaian schools, following what he described as a powerful display of national pride by President John Dramani Mahama during his recent visit to Zambia.
The proposal, which would require students to wear traditional attire representative of their cultural heritage, was inspired by President Mahama’s appearance in a fugu outfit while attending an official event in Zambia—an image that generated widespread admiration both locally and internationally.
Speaking at the Global Closing Ceremony of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ2025) in Accra, Mr Iddrisu said the recognition accorded President Mahama during the visit was unprecedented in his experience.
“President Mahama getting the best honours that I have ever experienced in my life as a visiting president to another republic,” the Education Minister remarked, adding that the moment underscored the global appeal of Ghana’s culture and identity.
Mr Iddrisu said the incident should serve as a reminder of the importance of deliberately promoting Ghanaian culture, particularly among young people within the education system. He noted that schools remain one of the most effective platforms for nurturing national identity and pride.
“Maybe that reminds us, and probably I should get the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service to declare that on any day declared ‘Our Day,’ every Ghanaian learner must go in a culturally fitting dress for them to observe our day nationwide,” he said.
According to him, such an initiative would allow “each culture, each society” to reflect its unique values and traditions, while also fostering mutual respect and national cohesion.
If implemented, the proposed ‘Our Day’ would see students across the country dressed in indigenous attire from their respective ethnic backgrounds, turning schools into spaces of cultural expression and learning. The initiative, Mr Iddrisu explained, is aimed at strengthening unity in diversity, promoting cultural literacy, and ensuring that Ghanaian traditions are not overshadowed by foreign influences.
Education analysts say the proposal aligns with broader efforts to integrate cultural education into the school curriculum, while parents and cultural advocates have welcomed the idea as a step toward preserving Ghana’s rich heritage for future generations.
