UE/R: SOCO PROJECT FACILITATORS URGED TO WORK HARD FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE PROJECT – DCE NABDAM
BY: Gladys Apuweni
The Ghana National Association of Private Schools (GNAPS) has officially opened its 39th National Conference in Bolgatanga, Upper East Region, under the theme “Artificial Intelligence: A Tool for Driving Education in the 21st Century.” The three day event, held at Desert Pastures, has drawn over 500 private school proprietors, administrators, and education stakeholders from across the country.
The opening ceremony was graced by eminent dignitaries, including His Royal Majesty Naab Kugbilsong Nanlebegtanga, Paramount Chief of the Tongo Traditional Area; Hon. Donatus Atanga Akamugri, Upper East Regional Minister, the Upper East Regional Director of Education, Mad Alice Abeere-inga, H.E. ANB Prof. Hugh Aryee; Rev. Eastwood Anaba, Founder of Desert Pastures; Hon. Stanley Akamiri Abopam, National President of TUSAAG; and the National President of GNAPS, Prof. Damasus Tuurosong.
In her address, Madam Alice Abeere Inga, the regional director of education, says AI has come to stay but can not take the place of teachers. Instead, it will enhance teaching and learning. She encourage both Parents and teachers to adopt the use of our local language in teaching children, as this will help them understand better, she added that public and private schools are not rivals, but should see that both are working towards the development, training and well being of the students.
Dr. Aisha Asi Akofi, the Greater Accra Regional Chairperson of GNAPS, emphasized the critical role of artificial intelligence (AI) in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of school management. She, however, stressed that AI can never replace teachers. Artificial intelligence never counsels, mentors, motivates, or inspires our children. It is only a tool to make the teacher’s work easier. For instance, teachers can use AI in research, assessment, setting of examination questions, and engaging students more interactively,” she explained.
She further highlighted GNAPS’ advocacy efforts, particularly on the controversial priority placement quota. “Our biggest challenge has been the 30% priority placement. Thankfully, through engagements, the government has reduced it to 15%. But as Oliver Twist, we ask for more,” she said.
Delivering the keynote address, Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Donatus Atanga Akamugri commended GNAPS for choosing Bolgatanga as the host city. He noted that the choice was “both symbolic and strategic” as it underscored the urgent need for innovative approaches to Ghana’s educational challenges. “The integration of AI into our educational system presents both opportunities and challenges that require leadership, innovation, and partnership between government, the private sector, and civil society. Private schools have been instrumental in expanding access to education where public schools can not meet demand, and you remain partners in national development, not competitors,” he stated.
The Regional Minister further disclosed that the Ministry of Education is working towards an MOU with GNAPS to bring accredited private senior high schools under the Free SHS policy to ensure equity and sustainability in the sector.
Prof. Damasus Tuurosong, National President of GNAPS, in his welcome remarks, urged delegates to look beyond the fascination with AI and reflect on deeper questions. “Artificial intelligence will transform how we teach and how our children learn. But will it also teach wisdom, empathy, and values? That depends not on machines but on how boldly we as educators prepare today,” he remarked.
He challenged participants to leave the conference not only with ideas but with conviction, collaboration, and courage to transform education delivery.
The event also celebrated the cultural richness of the Upper East Region, with dignitaries invited to experience landmarks such as the Paga Crocodile Pond, Tongo Shrine, and the vibrant Bolgatanga market.
As Ghana’s education sector undergoes curriculum reforms and increasing digital integration, the 39th GNAPS National Conference seeks to position private schools at the forefront of innovation, preparing learners for global competitiveness while preserving the human touch in education.
