The Administrator of the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), Dr. Richard Ampofo Boadu, recently highlighted the remarkable achievements of the fund in enhancing educational infrastructure across Ghana over a span of seven years. At a stakeholder forum held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, Dr. Boadu reported that from 2017 to September 2024, a total of 3,077 infrastructure projects were successfully completed. This impressive figure includes a diverse range of facilities: 1,608 basic school buildings, 1,298 senior high school projects, two technical and vocational education initiatives, 16 E-Blocks, two model schools, and 153 structures at the tertiary level. The forum was centered around the theme, “Supporting the Delivery of Quality Education: The Impact of GETFund,” which underscored the crucial role these projects play in the ongoing enhancement of Ghana’s educational system.
Dr. Boadu emphasized that some of the infrastructure projects were part of legacy initiatives set in motion by the previous National Democratic Congress (NDC) government. This acknowledgment highlights the continuity and importance of various governmental efforts to improve Ghanaian education through substantial investments in infrastructure. The projects completed under GETFund not only provide physical spaces for learning but also facilitate an environment that fosters academic excellence. The dedication to improving educational infrastructure underscores GETFund’s commitment to ensuring that students receive a quality education supported by the necessary facilities.
In addition to infrastructure development, Dr. Boadu revealed that GETFund has taken important steps in supporting students with disabilities. This year, the fund provided scholarships to all disabled applicants, ensuring that financial barriers do not impede their educational pursuits. Dr. Boadu shared success stories, including that of a 2022 awardee currently studying in the UK on a GETFund scholarship, demonstrating the fund’s dedication to inclusivity and equal educational opportunities for all students. This investment in human capital not only empowers individuals but also contributes to the broader goals of national development by enhancing the skills and capabilities of the workforce.
Moreover, Dr. Boadu addressed the strides GETFund has made towards digitalization, stating that all its projects are now digitized to improve efficiency and transparency. The adoption of digital tools in project management marks a significant shift towards modern practices, enabling better monitoring, reporting, and accountability in the execution of educational infrastructure projects. By embracing technology, GETFund can streamline processes and ensure that resources are utilized effectively while fostering a culture of openness that builds trust among stakeholders.
At the event, Mrs. Maamle Andrews, the Chief Director representing the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, echoed the significance of educational infrastructure in cultivating quality learning environments. She emphasized the need for improved facilities across Ghana’s 16 regions, noting that enhanced infrastructure directly correlates with students’ academic performance and access to better educational opportunities. The emphasis on equitable distribution of educational resources further highlights the collective responsibility to provide every student with the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their geographical location.
In conclusion, Dr. Boadu commended the impressive accomplishments of GETFund from 2017 to 2024, particularly the completion of thousands of projects that have substantially impacted the educational landscape in Ghana. The significant investment in infrastructure development, inclusive scholarship programs, and the commitment to digitalization not only enhance the quality of education but also lay the foundation for a brighter future for Ghanaian students. As GETFund continues to evolve and adapt to the changing educational needs of the country, it remains a pivotal entity in the ongoing effort to support and improve the delivery of quality education in Ghana.
