Education and Development Consultant Stresses that the National Education Forum is Focused on Ghana, Not Politics

An Education and Development Consultant has called on Ghanaians to put aside their political differences and fully support the National Education Forum, emphasizing that the initiative is a collective effort to secure the nation’s future, not a political contest. Dr. Samuel Awuku made these remarks during an appearance on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, February 25, urging citizens to view the forum as a unifying national agenda.

“I urge Ghanaians to recognize that this is a crucial point in our history, a moment when we must put aside political ideologies that are dividing us and work together for the greater good,” Dr. Awuku stated passionately.

Dr. Awuku warned of the dangers of excessive politicization in Ghana’s national discourse, explaining that constructive ideas are often drowned out by partisan interpretations. He lamented that many well-intentioned proposals are unfairly linked to political parties, which ultimately hinders progress and national unity.

“In a paper I wrote some time ago, I discussed how Ghana has become so politicized that even a simple point is often associated with a political party,” he remarked.

Drawing on his extensive experience in education reform, both within Ghana and abroad since 2013, Dr. Awuku stressed that technical expertise must take precedence over political affiliation when addressing the country’s challenges. He underscored the importance of prioritizing Ghana’s needs over partisan interests to ensure progress and unity.

“As a technical expert, I remain focused on the task at hand. There comes a time when we must all put Ghana first, roll up our sleeves, and do what is necessary to ensure the country moves forward,” Dr. Awuku stated.

Reflecting on his decision to join the National Education Forum committee, Dr. Awuku described it as an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the nation’s future. He emphasized that members of the committee, including those he personally knows, are committed to the cause, without any political agenda.

“When I was invited to join this committee, I saw it as a chance to truly make a difference. People who know me and those in the committee understand that we are all committed to this cause, with no political affiliations involved. It is about Ghana’s future,” Dr. Awuku asserted.

He praised President John Mahama’s call for inclusivity during the forum’s launch, reiterating the President’s message: “Everyone must come on board. No one should politicize this process. It must be a national agenda.”

Dr. Awuku also shared a personal experience from the 2017 pre-tertiary curriculum reform, which initially faced political skepticism. After he was invited to support the reform, some individuals reported to the then Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, alleging that he had brought an NDC supporter into the process.

However, the Minister’s response left a lasting impression on Dr. Awuku. The Minister asked, “In the schools, do the children wear any political party jersey or identity?” He went on to emphasize that the children of Ghana need the best possible education to contribute to the nation’s development, regardless of political affiliations.

Dr. Awuku urged Ghanaians to adopt this mindset and recognize that education must transcend politics. “The day we all realize that education should not be politicized, Ghana will truly move forward,” he concluded.

His remarks come at a critical time, as the nation seeks to build consensus around educational reforms that will shape the country’s future. Dr. Awuku’s plea is clear: “This is Ghana’s moment. Let’s do it together.”