World Bank Pledges $300 Million to Boost Ghana’s Secondary Education and Job Skills
Ghana is set to benefit from a significant injection of resources from the World Bank, with approximately $300 million committed to support the country’s Secondary Education Transformation for Results and Jobs (SETRJ) initiative. The programme, described as a flagship effort by the government, seeks to enhance learning outcomes in secondary schools while equipping students with skills necessary for the job market.
The announcement was made by Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu during a visit to Osu Mahean Basic School by Paschal Donohoe, Managing Director and Chief Knowledge Officer of the World Bank Group. Minister for Education Haruna Iddrisu highlighted that this initiative is a cornerstone of the government’s broader strategy to transform Ghana’s secondary education system.
“The financial backing from the World Bank will be pivotal in advancing reforms aimed at improving both the quality of teaching and learning,” the minister explained. He further emphasized that the programme seeks to create stronger links between education and employment, preparing students for meaningful participation in national development.
The visit also coincided with activities under the Ghana Accountability for Learning Outcomes Project (GALOP), an ongoing effort to enhance foundational learning and accountability within Ghana’s education sector. GALOP is seen as complementary to SETRJ, ensuring that investments in education lead to measurable improvements in learning outcomes.
Speaking during the engagement, Paschal Donohoe reaffirmed the World Bank’s support for Ghana’s education reforms. “We commend the Ministry of Education and the Government of Ghana for recognising the critical role of education in shaping the future of young people,” he said. “Strong education systems are essential to equipping students with the skills and competencies needed in a rapidly evolving global economy.”
Donohoe added that the World Bank is committed to continuing its partnership with Ghana to strengthen human capital through initiatives that not only improve classroom learning but also expand pathways to job opportunities for youth.
With this substantial support, Ghana aims to implement targeted reforms that will elevate teaching standards, improve student learning outcomes, and better prepare young Ghanaians for both local and international opportunities in the workforce.
