Government Moves to Upgrade 48 Colleges of Education into Universities

The Ministry of Education has announced major reforms to strengthen Ghana’s 48 public Colleges of Education. Speaking at the inauguration of seven new governing councils in Sunyani, the Education Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to infrastructure, governance, and institutional development.

“In 2023, the Ministry initiated the construction of 45 hostels across 46 Colleges of Education. Unfortunately, only nine are near completion, with 25 projects seeing little to no progress,” he revealed. “We have therefore canceled stalled contracts and re-awarded them, with GHS 403 million earmarked under GETFund to ensure timely delivery and ease accommodation pressures on students.”

The Minister also confirmed that the Colleges are in transition to university status, a move that requires amendments to their legal framework. “This migration necessitates changes to the enabling Act. GTEC is working with the Attorney General to ensure these amendments are passed in the next sitting of Parliament,” he explained.

He further urged college councils to work closely with GTEC during the transition. “It is critical that governing councils consult with GTEC before making major decisions, especially on appointments and structural reforms,” he stressed, noting that about 20 principals are expected to retire or complete their terms soon.

Reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment, he concluded: “Our goal is to strengthen the tertiary education sector and ensure our colleges are well-equipped to deliver high-quality teacher education for generations to come.”