GSTEP Event: Dr. Apaak Champions Equal Access to STEM Education”
By: Nana Kwasi Roka
Accra – The Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, has reiterated government’s commitment to bridging disparities in Ghana’s education system, stressing that access to quality learning should not be determined by one’s geographical location, income level or background.
Speaking at the Ghana Science & Tech Explorer Prize (GSTEP) event held under the theme “STEM Education and Its Role in Addressing Disparities in Education and Infrastructure Access in Ghana”, Dr. Apaak declared the theme as central to the vision of the new administration.
“The Ministry of Education has made it a mission to address the long-standing disparities in our education system,” Dr. Apaak noted. “Access to quality education should not depend on geographical location, income level, or background – and if we are to bridge these gaps, STEM must be at the forefront of our efforts.”
Dr. Apaak, who also serves as Member of Parliament for Builsa South, revealed that the NDC’s 2024 manifesto outlines robust initiatives aimed at boosting STEM education, ICT development and digital job creation across the country.
Among the key policy measures he highlighted were:
SmartStart Curriculum: Integration of STEM, coding and digital literacy into the basic school curriculum
Free Laptops/Tablets: Continued provision of devices to SHS students
Curriculum Reform: Inclusion of STEM, agriculture, vocational skills, design thinking and civic education into secondary education
Science Resource Centres: Nationwide expansion to support STEM and TVET
STEM and TVET Schools: Establishment of new schools in underserved areas
On the ICT front, Dr. Apaak mentioned additional plans to promote digital literacy and practical ICT skills, upgrade computer labs, create hubs for persons with disabilities and build ICT centres in deprived communities.
Touching on the GSTEP Challenge, Dr. Apaak described it as a flagship initiative to spark creativity among Junior High School students from Greater Accra, Eastern and Ashanti regions.
“Through mentorship, coaching and hands-on support, students are empowered to develop real solutions to real problems. From designing eco-friendly briquettes to traffic safety tools, these young innovators are proving that age is no barrier to impact,” he stated.
Dr. Apaak also congratulated all finalists, applauding their vision, teamwork and resilience.
“You are the true ambassadors of what education can and should be – practical, inspiring and transformational.”
The GSTEP Challenge continues to serve as a beacon of hope in championing inclusive and innovation-driven education in Ghana.
