Education Minister Engages UNDP and German Delegations on Youth Innovation and Language Education

By
Ellis Ferdinand
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UNDP Haruna Iddrisu Chairs Strategic Dialogue on GALOP Additional Financing Phase Two
Haruna Iddrisu Chairs Strategic Dialogue on GALOP Additional Financing Phase Two

Ferdinand | EducationGhana | June 16 | Education Minister Engages UNDP and German Delegations on Youth Innovation and Language Education

 

Hon. Haruna Iddrisu reaffirms Ghana’s commitment to inclusive innovation and German language promotion in schools

Accra, June 16, 2025 – The Minister for Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, has held high-level meetings with delegations from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the German Embassy to deepen collaboration on youth innovation and foreign language education in Ghana.

The engagements, held at the Ministry’s conference room in Accra, underscored the government’s determination to equip Ghanaian youth with relevant 21st-century skills while enhancing international cooperation in education.

UNDP Lauds Progress in Youth Innovation

Leading the UNDP delegation, Resident Representative Mr. Niloy Banerjee commended the Ministry for exceeding expectations in the ongoing Young Africa Innovates (YAI) programme. The initiative, designed to promote inclusive innovation, especially among women, persons with disabilities, and rural youth, initially targeted 600 participants but has since recruited 1,182 with the Ministry’s support.

According to Mr. Banerjee, more than 10,000 young people have been engaged nationwide through the YAI initiative. Participants have received training in key sectors such as agriculture, energy, environment, and technology—resulting in the creation of over 9,000 jobs. Notably, 60% of beneficiaries are women.

“We are particularly excited about the inclusive nature of the programme. Ghana’s youth are showing tremendous potential in innovation,” Mr. Banerjee stated.

In response, Hon. Iddrisu reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to driving inclusive, skills-based education that meets global and local development needs. He praised UNDP’s continued partnership and emphasized the importance of scaling successful youth programmes across regions.

German Delegation Promotes Language Education and Exchange

Later that day, the Minister welcomed a delegation from the German Embassy led by Deputy Ambassador Ms. Sevine Jansen. Their discussions centered on expanding German language instruction and deepening bilateral education ties.

The German team noted significant developments, including the elevation of German to a full academic programme at the University of Education, Winneba, and the introduction of German courses in selected TVET institutions, including in Tamale.

Ms. Jansen also highlighted potential collaboration in teacher exchange programmes and the deployment of digital learning platforms by Ambylon, a German education technology company.

However, the delegation expressed concern over delays in settling obligations tied to the DAAD scholarship programme, which has currently been paused.

Hon. Iddrisu acknowledged the challenge and assured the delegation that Ghana remains committed to resolving all outstanding issues. “We value our academic and cultural relationship with Germany. Efforts are underway to address the situation and restore full cooperation,” he assured.

Looking Ahead

Both engagements reflect Ghana’s forward-looking approach to education, focusing on skills development, international collaboration, and inclusive innovation. The Education Minister emphasized the need for continuous investment in youth capacity and cross-cultural academic exchanges to enhance national development.

 

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Source: Ferdinand Ellis | Eduplus Africa Consult
Published by: EducationGhana.org | June 16, 2025

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