Curriculum Reforms for SHS: What Students Need to Know in Ghana (2025 Update)

By
Ellis Ferdinand
-
Curriculum Reforms for SHS: What Students Need to Know in Ghana (2025 Update)
Curriculum Reforms for SHS: What Students Need to Know in Ghana (2025 Update)

Ferdinand | EducationGhana | July 06 | Curriculum Reforms for SHS: What Students Need to Know in Ghana (2025 Update)

 Learn all about the SHS curriculum reforms in Ghana. Discover what’s new, what changes affect students, and how to adapt successfully in 2025 and beyond.

Introduction: Understanding Ghana’s SHS Curriculum Reforms

The Ghanaian education system is undergoing one of its most transformative phases—especially at the Senior High School (SHS) level. The curriculum reforms for SHS aim to modernize learning, empower students with future-ready skills, and align education with global standards.

These reforms are not just administrative shifts; they directly affect how students learn, how they are assessed, and how they prepare for tertiary education or employment.

Timeline and Implementation of the New SHS Curriculum

When Did the Reforms Begin?

The SHS reforms were part of Ghana’s Education Strategic Plan launched between 2018 and 2030. However, full implementation in SHS started rolling out progressively from 2021, with accelerated efforts expected to impact all SHS levels by 2025.

Which Year Groups Are Affected?

Currently, SHS1 and SHS2 students in 2025 are the most impacted, with full integration expected across SHS3 by 2026.

Key Changes in the SHS Curriculum Structure

Shift from Content-Based to Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC)

Rather than focusing solely on facts and memorization, the new SHS system emphasizes:

  • What students can do with what they learn

  • Practical application of concepts

 

Emphasis on Core Skills

Students are now evaluated more on:

  • Critical thinking

  • Creativity

  • Collaboration

  • Communication skills

 

Integration of STEM and Digital Literacy

With the global focus on tech and innovation, the curriculum now includes:

  • Coding and Robotics (for selected schools)

  • STEM clubs

  • Use of tablets and online learning tools

Subjects Affected by the SHS Curriculum Reforms

Core Subjects

Core SHS subjects have been redesigned to reflect deeper understanding:

  • Mathematics now includes real-life application problems.

  • Integrated Science promotes hands-on learning and experiments.

  • English Language focuses on speaking and writing coherently.

 

Elective Subjects

Each elective field—Science, Business, General Arts, Technical—now follows updated modules to support analytical and problem-solving skills.

Assessment Changes Under the New Curriculum

Continuous Assessment (30%) vs. Final Exams (70%)

The new system places greater emphasis on:

  • Classwork

  • Homework

  • Practical tasks

  • Project-based assessments

School-Based Projects and Practical Work

Students must complete year-long projects that account for part of their final grade, especially in science and ICT-related courses.

How Curriculum Reforms Benefit SHS Students

Better Preparedness for University and Job Market

This reform aligns student learning with:

  • University readiness

  • Entrepreneurial thinking

  • Career skills

Real-Life Application of Knowledge

Instead of memorizing definitions, students learn how to apply principles in daily life—making learning more relevant.

Challenges Faced During the Curriculum Transition

Teacher Training and Resource Constraints

Some SHS schools face issues like:

  • Lack of trained CBC teachers

  • Inadequate lab equipment or ICT tools

Student Adaptation and Assessment Gaps

Students used to rote learning may struggle initially with:

  • Project work

  • Group-based learning

  • Independent research tasks

Tips for SHS Students to Adapt to Curriculum Reforms

Focus on Conceptual Understanding

Ask why and how, not just what. Understanding concepts improves retention and performance.

Participate in Project-Based and Group Work

Learn to collaborate, communicate ideas, and take initiative during group presentations and assignments.

Improve Digital and Self-Learning Skills

Use online platforms like:

Voices from the Classroom: Teachers and Students React

Teacher Experiences With the New Curriculum

“Teaching now feels more engaging. Students ask questions and think critically.” – Mr. K. Ankomah, SHS Science Teacher

Student Feedback on Learning Experiences

“I enjoy project work. It makes me understand topics better.” – Abena Owusu, SHS2 Student

NaCCA’s Role in the SHS Curriculum Overhaul

What Is NaCCA?

The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) oversees curriculum reforms in Ghana. It ensures relevance, alignment, and effective implementation of school programs.

Curriculum Guidelines and Approvals

All textbooks and classroom materials used under the new system must be NaCCA-approved.

FAQs About Curriculum Reforms for SHS in Ghana

Q1: Are WASSCE exams affected by the curriculum reforms?
Yes. While WAEC sets the exam, schools align their teaching and assessments with the updated CBC structure.

Q2: Will this make SHS more difficult?
Not harder—just more practical and applicable. Understanding is prioritized over memorization.

Q3: Are private SHSs also implementing the reforms?
Yes, all recognized SHSs under MoE supervision must follow the reforms.

Q4: How can parents support students?
Encourage digital learning, project discussions, and provide quiet spaces for study.

Q5: What if a school lacks the resources?
The Ministry is rolling out support gradually, and NaCCA-approved materials are being distributed nationwide.

Conclusion: Embracing the New Curriculum for a Brighter Future

The SHS curriculum reforms are designed to prepare Ghanaian students for the realities of a fast-changing world. By focusing on critical thinking, hands-on learning, and real-world applications, the new system ensures students leave school ready—not just for exams—but for life. Embrace the change, and thrive within it!

Internal Links to SHS and WASSCE Resources

External Links to NaCCA and Ministry of Education Ghana

 

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