The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially published a list of President John Mahama’s 20 major achievements in the education sector within the first eight months of his administration, which began on 7th January 2025.
According to the report, these achievements reflect billions of Ghana cedis in investment to improve infrastructure, teacher welfare, student support, and overall learning outcomes.
Key Highlights of the GES Report
GH¢1 billion allocated to the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) Programme, ensuring smooth implementation and expansion.
GH¢72.8 million released as Capitation Grant, with all outstanding arrears cleared for basic schools.
Over 30,000 diploma teachers upgraded to the PS salary scale after earning degrees through distance, weekend, or sandwich programmes.
Stalled E-Block projects (community day schools) abandoned during the previous administration are set to be completed.
Special welfare initiatives, including free sanitary pads for schoolgirls, school feeding support, and fee coverage for BECE and WASSCE registration.
Controversy Over Teacher Upgrades Captured In The Mahama’s 20 Education Achievements in 8 Months List
One of the most debated items on the list is the placement of diploma teachers who upgraded their qualifications on the Professional Scale (PS). While the GES claims over 30,000 teachers have benefited, some educators argue that the process has faced delays, especially in the Eastern Region, where allegations of corruption and bureaucratic sabotage have surfaced.
Teachers like Kwadwo Adu Bomofo and Mac Kojo Kwarbi have publicly criticized certain education officials, calling for greater accountability and transparency in implementing these policies.
Full List of John Mahama’s 20 Education Achievements in 8 Months
GH¢1 billion to the Free SHS programme has been paid.
GH¢72.8 million Capitation Grant released; all arrears cleared.
Directive for all Districts to build Nursery, Primary, and JHS facilities from the 2025 DACF.
99 double-track schools restored to the single-track system.
Free SHS budget allocation increased with a sustainable funding source.
GH¢2.9 billion transferred to the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund).
GH¢895 million paid to the School Feeding Programme for basic schools.
PTAs reactivated to strengthen school governance and discipline.
GH¢122.8 million allocated for BECE registration fees.
GH¢52 million released for Teacher Training Allowances.
Increased budget per child under the School Feeding Programme.
Early release of academic calendars to aid effective planning.
Teachers now eligible for promotion to director rank.
Teacher Licensure exams—previously taken months after graduation—canceled.
Completion of all stalled E-Block projects to resume.
Free sanitary pads distributed to schoolgirls to reduce absenteeism.
GH¢300 million allocated to the No Fee Stress Policy for SHS graduates entering tertiary institutions.
WASSCE practical examination fees covered by government.
Feeding grants released for special needs schools.
Over 30,000 diploma teachers upgraded to PS salary scale after obtaining degrees.
READ: August 2025 BECE Home Mock Full Results, Examiner’s Report Out -Download
Public Reaction and Implications
The announcement has sparked discussions among educators, parents, and policymakers. Supporters view the list as evidence of a renewed commitment to educational reform, while critics question whether all the claims are fully verifiable.
The completion of E-Block schools and teacher salary upgrades are expected to have the most immediate impact on reducing classroom congestion and improving teacher motivation.
Why This Matters
Education remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s development agenda. These achievements, if fully implemented, could lead to better infrastructure, improved teacher welfare, and higher student performance across all levels of education.
The GES report suggests that President John Mahama’s administration is prioritizing education as a key driver of national progress. However, consistent monitoring, transparency, and stakeholder engagement will be essential to ensure that these initiatives deliver long-term results.
Source: BECEPrep Educational Research Team
Providing data-driven insights and resources for Ghana’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). For free mock exams and study guides, visit beceprep.com.
