In a groundbreaking move, Dr. Adutwum has announced the launch of Ghana’s first virtual high school, set to begin next academic year. This innovative initiative is part of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) transformative plans for education, under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
The virtual high school will be hosted on the Ghana Knowledge and Skills Bank Portal, which was launched on September 17, 2024. This platform will provide students with access to a comprehensive curriculum, approved by the Ghanaian education authorities. But that’s not all – the virtual high school will also feature virtual labs, built in collaboration with the Open University in the United Kingdom.
These virtual labs will enable students to participate in hands-on science experiments, without the need for physical equipment. As Dr. Adutwum aptly put it, “You can dissect a frog virtually… You do your science virtually, and that is the new Ghana.” This pioneering approach will ensure that Ghanaian students have access to world-class educational resources, regardless of their geographical location.
The initial intake will comprise 10,000 students nationwide, who will have the opportunity to learn virtually. This is a significant step towards bridging the gap in access to quality education in Ghana. The virtual high school will also provide students with access to over 5 million online library archives, learning resources, and tools, courtesy of the Knowledge and Skills portal.
The portal, built by Mpuntu Technologies, a Ghanaian-owned company, has received support from telecommunications giant MTN and funding from the World Bank. This collaborative effort demonstrates the commitment of various stakeholders to revolutionizing education in Ghana.
Dr. Adutwum emphasized that digitalization offers Ghana a new opportunity to create a better education system. He noted that the country is on the cusp of a paradigm shift, one that will transform the education landscape forever.
The Ghana Knowledge Bank portal is a testament to the power of technology in education. With features like personalized teaching options and multilingual support, this platform is poised to become a model for virtual learning in Africa.
As Dr. Adutwum aptly put it, “10 years ago, we never thought there would be this… Ghana Knowledge Bank, second to what we’ve seen in Egypt.” This statement underscores the significance of this achievement and the potential for Ghana to become a leader in virtual education.
The launch of the virtual high school is a bold step towards harnessing the potential of technology to transform education. As Ghana embarks on this exciting journey, it’s clear that the future of education in the country looks brighter than ever.
Ghana’s virtual high school represents a seismic shift in the country’s education landscape. With its innovative approach, cutting-edge technology, and collaborative spirit, this initiative is poised to revolutionize the way Ghanaian students learn and interact with educational content.
