I have not disappointed Mahama since my appointment – Haruna Iddrisu

Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, says President John Dramani Mahama’s confidence in him has been justified since his appointment to lead Ghana’s education sector.

Mr Iddrisu made the assertion while responding to a question on whether he was surprised by his appointment during Point of View on Wednesday, December 24, 2025.

“There are significant challenges and problems that need to be dealt with head-on, and I’m sure he trusted my judgment in that respect. But I have not disappointed him in the last one year, and I shall not. And we will review and reform Ghana’s education generally, in order that we would produce competences that can stand the 21st century,” the minister said.

He indicated that his selection for the role followed careful thought and broad consultations by President Mahama, given the depth of challenges confronting the sector.

“I’m sure President Mahama thoroughly engaged and consulted before the decision to send me to the Ministry of Education, probably to help him reset Ghana’s education sector,” the minister said.

According to him, education remains one of the most demanding portfolios in government because it affects every Ghanaian family and spans multiple levels with long-standing difficulties.

“Ghana’s education sector undoubtedly faces enormous challenges, from kindergarten to basic education, to primary, junior high school, secondary education to tertiary education,” Mr Iddrisu noted. “There are significant challenges and problems that need to be dealt with head-on.”

He said the President’s decision was grounded in trust, adding that he has worked diligently to meet expectations since taking office.

Mr Iddrisu disclosed that government plans to undertake a comprehensive review of Ghana’s education system to align outcomes with modern global demands.

“We will review and reform Ghana’s education generally, in order that we would produce competences that can stand the 21st century,” he explained.

He stressed that reforms will prioritise skills development rather than an overemphasis on theory.

“We intend to work to equip Ghanaians with what you call the 21st century skills, not just knowledge, but critical thinking, analytical minds,” he said, adding that such skills are critical to national development and global competitiveness.

Reflecting on the scope of his responsibilities, Mr Iddrisu described the ministry as challenging but central to national progress.

“I wouldn’t say that I was surprised, but it is quite a very challenging portfolio,” he said. “You touch every life. Every parent is looking for you.”