Government urges stronger investment in literacy, lifelong learning

Professor George K. T. Oduro, Technical Advisor to Ghana's Minister of Education, has urged for increased investment and stronger partnerships to boost literacy and lifelong learning in the nation. Speaking at a stakeholders' meeting to commemorate International Literacy Day, Prof. Oduro emphasized that continuous learning is crucial for equipping citizens with the necessary knowledge and skills for national development.

The event, themed "Emerging Issues, Challenges and Opportunities in Literacy and Lifelong Learning in Ghana," highlighted the importance of viewing literacy and lifelong learning as essential elements of personal and national growth.

Oduro stressed that learning should be an ongoing process, similar to the unstoppable aging process. He maintained that a society committed to learning must provide chances for individuals to gain knowledge, skills, and competencies at any age or situation. National and international data indicate that Ghana has made significant strides in literacy, despite varying estimates.

The government aims to build upon these advancements to ensure that every Ghanaian possesses the competencies needed to effectively contribute to the country's development.

The Technical Advisor highlighted four key pillars for literacy: language, mathematics, science, and cultural literacy. Language literacy enables effective communication, comprehension, and participation in society. Mathematics literacy is vital for quantitative reasoning, problem-solving, financial management, and informed decision-making.

Science literacy empowers citizens to understand the natural and technological world, apply evidence-based reasoning, and address health, environmental, and technological issues. Cultural literacy is equally important, as it fosters an understanding and appreciation of Ghana's diverse history, languages, values, traditions, and identities, thereby promoting national unity.

Oduro emphasized that these four pillars must be strengthened within a lifelong learning framework, as globalization, technological advancement, and a rapidly changing knowledge economy require continuous skill development. He stressed that learning cannot be limited to traditional classroom settings, advocating for learning opportunities across homes, communities, workplaces, and digital platforms.

Acknowledging challenges such as inadequate funding, limited resources, and insufficient trained personnel, Oduro called for greater collaboration among government, development partners, civil society organizations, communities, and other stakeholders to overcome these obstacles. He reiterated that a literate society is an empowered, healthy, and productive society.