Tablets to Replace Books? All you need to know about the Ghana Smart Schools Project (GSSP)

What is the rationale behind the Ghana Smart Schools Project?

The Ghana Smart Schools Project is an extension of government’s free SHS project being digitalised. The objective is to empower Ghanaian students to learn the smart way with limitless boundaries.

What are the Specifications of the tablet (Battery Life, Software version, etc)?

(Screen size 10.1″inch; RAM 4GB: Storage 128GB; Battery capacity is 3.7V / 8000mAH lasting 7-8hrs; Solar chargeable Power bank; Wifi and Sim card supported; Android 12 operating system; customised LMS etc.)

What is the Sustainability and Durability of the Tablet?

The tablet has passed all quality tests (durability test, stress test, etc) comparable to every global brand. Depending on the user, the SM1 tablet can outlive the average lifespan of most tech products.

What is the Distribution Plan?

The Distribution is in Phases; tablets would be delivered to schools through GES/TVET Regional Stores. The entire distribution process is automated. Students’ enrolment data approved by the FSHS secretariat is preloaded into the distribution app. Every device serial number is then assigned to a specific student. By this, we know the user of every device.

What are the learning contents on the tablet?

Each tablet has a pre-installed Learning Mgt System (LMS). The platform is available both online and offline. All current approved contents by NaCCA have been uploaded on the platform. Currently, we have contents from KG to SHS on the platform (i.e Video, PDF, WAEC revision questions etc.). Additional contents would be uploaded to meet the changing needs of students in line with policy direction.

Is the tablet here to replace textbooks?

This would be a policy decision to replace text books by the Ghana Education service and MOE.

Source: GES