Independence Day Awards scheme demonstrates gov’t inclusion efforts – Dr. Apaak

Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, says the Independence Day Awards scheme reflects the government’s deliberate commitment to inclusion and equal opportunity nationwide.

Dr. Apaak made the remarks at the President’s Independence Day Awards for school children held at the Accra International Conference Centre, where he underscored the inclusive design of the selection process.

He disclosed that this year’s ceremony honoured 52 outstanding students drawn from across the country.

According to him, the awardees were selected through an inclusive process coordinated by the Ghana Education Service.

“This year we celebrate 52 awardees selected through an inclusive process coordinated by the Ghana Education Service. These students represent every region in Ghana,” Dr. Apaak stated.

He further indicated that public schools were strongly represented in the selection structure.

“We have 32 awardees from public schools from each region,” he said, stressing that the framework ensures nationwide participation.

Dr. Apaak explained that the awards scheme is intentionally structured to promote equity and fairness.

“This regional and inclusive structure reflects a deliberate national commitment. Excellence must be identified everywhere and opportunity must reach everyone,” he emphasised.

He commended the Ghana Education Service for what he described as a rigorous and credible verification process.

“We commend the Ghana Education Service in the selection and verification process,” he noted.

The Deputy Minister added that the credibility of the awards rests on careful deliberations that safeguard fairness across both public and private institutions. He also highlighted provisions made for learners with special educational needs.

“These awards are the outcomes of careful deliberations in ensuring fairness across public and private institutions and full inclusion of learners with special educational needs,” Dr. Apaak said.

He pointed out that the integrity of the scheme has sustained it since its establishment in 1993, describing it as a programme rooted in merit and national representation.

Dr. Apaak also expressed appreciation to corporate partners who have supported the initiative over the years.

“I wish to express our sincerest appreciation to Nestlé Ghana Limited for its continuous and now over three-decade sponsorship and partnership,” he added.

The President’s Independence Day Awards remain one of the country’s most recognised platforms for celebrating academic excellence among basic school pupils, with government officials maintaining that its inclusive structure reflects broader national education goals.