The Member of Parliament for Amasaman, Hon. Sedem Afenyo, has encouraged students to take their academic work seriously in order to fulfill their aspirations. He emphasized that while some students may have parental support to reach university, others may have to rely on scholarships and personal determination to succeed.
Hon. Afenyo made these remarks during a Course Selection and Career Guidance Seminar held for Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates in the Amasaman Constituency.
He urged students not to give up if they struggle academically, but to also consider vocational training as a viable alternative. He said academic success isn’t the only path, and added, “If you’re not doing well in school, don’t give up. Consider vocational training—learn tailoring, mechanics, carpentry, etc. When I lived in the UK, I realized that certificates from here didn’t carry the same weight. Employers were more interested in skills than paper qualifications. So equip yourself with practical skills, and whatever your circumstances, make the best out of yourself.”
The MP also pledged to continue supporting educational development in the constituency by providing desks for schools that lack them, financing mock exams, and offering scholarships to academically strong but financially challenged students.
Meanwhile, Mr. Joseph K. Appiah, Assistant Headmaster in charge of academics at Accra Girls Senior High School, explained the fundamentals of Ghana’s new curriculum framework. He highlighted that the curriculum emphasizes a learner-centered approach, shifting away from traditional teacher-dominated instruction to interactive environments where students think critically and learn at their own pace.
According to him, “Unlike the old curriculum, the new one includes assessment reforms. Rather than relying solely on final exams, a 30:70 model is being adopted—30% based on continuous assessment and class activities, and 70% on final examinations.” He added that this reform is essential if Ghana is to bridge the gap between education and socio-economic development. “We’ve been producing graduates who are good at passing exams but can’t apply what they’ve learned. That must change,” he said.
Mr. Clottey Michael, leader of the Community Impact Project and organiser of the seminar, expressed confidence that the event would guide learners in choosing the right courses ahead of the BECE in June. “This is the first of its kind in our community,” he said. “Our aim is to nurture learners who can contribute to the development of the community in the near future.”
He also acknowledged the impact of the presence and presentations of key guests at the seminar, including Hon. Sedem Afenyo, Mr. Joseph K. Appiah, Mrs. Gloria Dzikunu Peggies (TVET Coordinator, Ga West Municipality Education Office), Hon. Isaac Mensah Sackey (Assemblyman, Nsakina Electoral Area), Mrs. Faustina Yeboah Quarshie (HR Specialist), Madam Helen Kamwelba (Deputy Director of Education, Ga West), Elder Ezekiel Appleh (Land Surveyor and Geomatic Engineer), Mr. Muniru Seidu (Chartered Accountant), Elder Godfred Narteh (Business Development Manager and UN Best Diplomat), and Ps. Prophetess Mrs. Philomena Asante (Head Pastor, CAC Int. Oduma Christ).
Story by: Osman Issah Abadoo
