Dr. Apaak highlights robust gov’t interventions to tackle illiteracy in digital era

Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, has assured Ghanaians that the government is stepping up interventions to close the literacy gap and better prepare citizens for opportunities in the digital age.

Speaking at the 58th International Literacy Day celebration in Tamale, Dr. Apaak said the government recognises the urgency of tackling illiteracy, which remains at 30.2 percent despite progress made.

“Literacy is the springboard to partake fully in the digital economy,” he said. “That is why the government has rolled out targeted programmes such as the Complementary Basic Education initiative, the Communities of Excellence Programme, and the National Standardised Test to change the narrative of learning poverty.”

While praising the role of the United Nations Educational,  Cultural, and Scientific Organization (UNESCO), non-governmental organizations, and civil society, the deputy minister noted that the government is retooling the Complementary Education Agency to serve as a “third force” in delivering literacy nationwide.

“We are making every effort to provide the Agency with the staff, resources, and legal backing it requires to transform lives,” Dr. Apaak assured.

According to him, literacy is more than just schooling. “It is a unique and powerful tool to eradicate poverty and a strong means for social and human progress,” he stressed.

The Deputy Minister called on all partners in the literacy ecosystem to redouble efforts, noting that the digital age offers great possibilities if no one is left behind.

“Let us work hard to change the story of literacy in Ghana for a deep dive into the digital era and the opportunities it presents,” Dr. Apaak urged.