Empowering Education: UEW Faculty Enhance Knowledge on New SHS Curriculum
The University of Education, Winneba (UEW), on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, showcased its commitment to educational excellence by hosting Prof. Edward Appiah, Director General of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), to give insight on the keenly anticipated new Senior High School (SHS) curriculum.
With faculty members from UEW actively engaged in shaping the future of Ghana's educational landscape, the event marked a pivotal moment in educational reform. Prof. Appiah commended the university for its substantial contributions, noting that 60% of UEW faculty played integral roles in crafting the comprehensive framework of the new SHS curriculum.
Addressing attendees, including Prof. Stephen Jobson Mitchual, Vice-Chancellor of UEW, Prof. Appiah emphasised the critical objectives of the reforms. "The main priorities of the education reforms are to improve learning outcomes and enhance accountability and equity at all levels of the educational sector," he stated. "These new reform initiatives exist to provide clear performance standards to guide the teaching, learning, assessment, and grading of students."
One of the most striking features of the new SHS curriculum is its shift towards subject-area-based learning, reducing the number of subjects from 63 to 37. Prof. Appiah highlighted the incorporation of physical education as an examinable subject and the introduction of flexible pathways, empowering students to explore their interests and talents.
Furthermore, the curriculum places a strong emphasis on STEM education, integrating remedial assistance and interactive, practical exercises to foster a deeper understanding of scientific concepts. Prof. Appiah also underscored the inclusion of socio-emotional learning, ensuring holistic development for all students.
In response to these transformative changes, Prof. Eric Daniel Ananga, a member of the NaCCA Board, urged teacher-training universities like UEW to adapt their pedagogical approaches. "We need to have another look at how we prepare teachers," he emphasised. "With the prevalence of 21st-century skills and self-directed learning, traditional teaching methods may no longer suffice. It's imperative that we equip educators with the tools to engage and inspire the next generation effectively."
In his opening remarks, Prof. Mitchual, expressed satisfaction that 60% of UEW faculty contributed to the writing of the new SHS curriculum. He was optimistic that the reforms would contribute to the goals of the Ghanaian educational strategic plan and the sustainable development goals.
UEW faculty members present at the event made significant contributions by offering thoughtful recommendations to reinforce the educational framework and fill in any potential gaps in the new SHS curriculum, guaranteeing a more comprehensive learning experience.
As Ghana prepares to implement the new SHS curriculum in September, UEW stands at the forefront of educational innovation, driving forward a vision of inclusive, dynamic learning for all. With its faculty leading the charge, the university exemplifies a steadfast commitment to empowering both students and educators, ensuring a brighter future for Ghana's educational landscape.
