Education remains the engine that will power our industrial growth – Apaak

Ghana’s education system must move beyond theory to cultivate problem-solving and innovation, Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Abas Apaak has said.

Dr. Apaak made the call during the congregation of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) in Navrongo on Saturday, December 20, 2025, where he served as Special Guest of Honour.

He argued that education must respond directly to shifting global economic realities and equip graduates with practical skills.

“We live in a defining moment where education must go beyond theory. It must inspire problem-solving. It must drive entrepreneurship,” Dr. Apaak told the gathering. “Our graduates should not only seek jobs; they must be prepared to create them.”

He linked the government’s approach to the ongoing implementation of the Education Strategic Plan (2024–2030), noting that the plan places strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), technical and vocational education and training (TVET), and digital literacy.

“As we roll out the Education Strategic Plan, priority is being given to STEM, TVET and digital skills,” he said. “UTAS must continue to lead in producing graduates who become innovators, entrepreneurs and nation-builders.”

According to the Deputy Minister, this direction fits into Ghana’s broader national ambition of building a knowledge-based economy capable of driving industrial expansion, improving healthcare delivery and advancing technological innovation.

“Education remains the engine that will power our industrial growth and technological progress,” he added.

Dr. Apaak also addressed infrastructural challenges confronting UTAS, acknowledging that several construction projects at the university had stalled over the years due to funding difficulties.

He noted that since UTAS was established in 2020, inadequate infrastructure had affected its growth, although some projects had recently been reactivated.

“I am aware of the infrastructural limitations this university has faced, with many projects stalled for far too long,” he said. “These challenges are being taken seriously.”

He disclosed that President John Dramani Mahama has given assurances that infrastructural development across tertiary institutions will receive urgent attention.

“The President has assured that projects at institutions like UTAS will be prioritized,” Dr. Apaak stated.

He further indicated that the Ministry of Education, working with the President, will facilitate timely releases from the Ghana Education Trust Fund to support project completion.

“GETFund resources will be made available to enable contractors finish these projects for the benefit of the university community,” he said.

Dr. Apaak urged students and faculty to remain committed to excellence, stressing that the success of national education reforms depends on strong institutions and forward-looking graduates.