Accra: Dr Clement Apaak, the Deputy Minister of Education, announced that the government is prioritizing the training of teachers in foundational learning to improve educational outcomes. The announcement was made during the launch of the 2025 Foundational Learning Action Tracker (FLAT) in collaboration with UNICEF and the Hempel Foundation.
According to Ghana News Agency, the digital monitoring tool, FLAT, aims to accelerate progress in literacy, numeracy, and socio-emotional skills for children across Ghana. It will assist the country in achieving its national education goals and the Sustainable Development Goals. Dr Apaak emphasized that Ghana has reinforced its position as a leader in foundational learning by revising the curriculum from kindergarten to primary six.
Dr Apaak highlighted that the government recognizes the critical role teachers play in educational success. He noted that the administration is investing in teacher training as a key resource for positive educational outcomes. Furthermore, the government has implemented policies allowing the use of the mother tongue for instruction from kindergarten to primary three.
Additionally, Dr Apaak mentioned the 'Teacher Dabre' policy, launched by President Mahama in March, aimed at improving education in rural areas. This policy includes incentives such as a 20 per cent allowance for teachers in deprived communities, plans to build teacher accommodation units in rural areas, and the inclusion of teacher housing in all new basic schools.
Dr Pia Rebello Bristol, UNICEF's Global Director for Education and Adolescent Development, stated that the FLAT monitors national efforts within the foundational learning framework. This framework targets five key action areas, including reaching every child, assessing learning levels, and prioritizing fundamental teaching. It also focuses on increasing instructional efficiency and developing psychosocial health and well-being.
The FLAT, first launched in 2023, aims to drive global accountability for foundational learning commitments. The 2025 findings show that while most nations have maintained their efforts, progress must be accelerated to ensure all children are learning. Notably, about 70 per cent of children in low- and middle-income countries are unable to read and understand a simple text by age 10.
According to the World Bank, learning poverty could result in a loss of up to 10 per cent of future Gross Domestic Product for countries due to a less skilled workforce. Mr Anders Holm, CEO of the Hempel Foundation, highlighted the importance of foundational skills to enable children to reach their full potential. He urged governments to collaborate and invest in teacher training, moving from commitment to action.