Education, Ghana
Confusion arose after comments by Ghana’s Education Minister, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, sparked speculation about a nationwide shift in public basic school uniforms and a mass school repainting initiative.
The Ministry of Education has since issued a statement clarifying Dr. Adutwum’s remarks. Ministry spokesperson Kwasi Kwarteng emphasized that there are no plans for a nationwide uniform change or a mandatory repainting of all schools.
New Schools Granted Options for Design
Kwarteng explained that Dr. Adutwum’s comments specifically referred to newly constructed 21st Century Model Junior High Schools. These state-of-the-art institutions will have to choose “brighter and friendlier colors” for their buildings and potentially adopt new uniforms.
“The aim is to create a more inviting and aesthetically pleasing environment for students in these new schools,” Kwarteng said in the statement. “There is no requirement for existing schools to repaint their buildings or change their uniforms.”
Mixed Reactions to Uniform Change
The potential uniform change, which would be the second under the current administration, has generated mixed reactions from parents and educators.
Some parents expressed concerns about the additional cost of new uniforms, while others welcomed a potential refresh for school attire. Educators offered a range of opinions, with some suggesting the focus should be on educational resources rather than aesthetics.
The Ministry of Education’s clarification comes after Dr. Adutwum’s announcement at a recent forum led to misinterpretations. During the forum, he mentioned the possibility of a shift to “blue and white” uniforms and painting all schools.
The Ministry has since stressed that these changes are limited to new schools and represent options, not mandates.
Source: Graphic Online
