Former Finance Minister, Dr Mohammed Amin Adam has raised concerns over the growing influence of digital technology on students and young people, noting that many are not fully harnessing its benefits for academic and personal advancement.
He pointed out that although technology continues to expand opportunities for learning and innovation globally, it is increasingly being used for entertainment instead of education.
During the commissioning of a 12-unit classroom block at the Northern School of Business in Tamale, he urged the students to prioritise academic excellence and personal discipline throughout their studies.
He emphasised that education remains a lifelong foundation for development and social mobility, and it must not be undermined by distraction.
According to him, technological advancement continues to reshape learning systems worldwide, yet its misuse is weakening academic focus among many students.
He observed that digital devices, instead of supporting research and study, are often being used for gaming, films, and social entertainment.
He further noted that earlier generations consistently produced individuals who surpassed their parents in knowledge and intellectual capacity, a trend he says is now reversing in some cases. This shift, he explained, is largely driven by the poor application of modern technology among young people.
He disclosed that research suggests a growing gap between access to information and effective learning outcomes among today’s students. While technology is more available than ever, its positive impact on education is not being fully realised.
“Children have always grown to know more than their fathers and often become better than them. However, research now suggests that in this generation, many fathers appear to know more than their children. Why is this happening? It is because we have access to technology they never had, yet we are not using it positively or productively for our education and future.”
Dr Mohammed Amin Adam
He advised students to manage their time effectively, stressing that entertainment is temporary while education builds lasting opportunities. Strong academic discipline, he added, remains essential for personal success and national development.
The former Finance Minister also referenced respected Ghanaian figures such as Kwame Nkrumah and Kofi Annan, whose achievements continue to influence society through education and professional excellence. He maintained that strong academic foundations consistently shape leadership and drive national transformation, helping individuals reach their full potential like these distinguished figures.
He encouraged students of the Northern School of Business to remain focused and committed, adding that dedication to learning positions young people to contribute meaningfully to national progress.
Educational Community Development Projects Extend To Schools in Northern Region
Former Finance Minister Dr Mohammed Amin Adam revealed that appeals from school authorities played a key role in his decision to support educational infrastructure projects across the Northern Region.
He explained that engagements with headteachers and community leaders helped determine the rollout of several interventions.
The classroom block for the Northern School of Business emerged from direct consultations with school leadership, aimed at improving teaching and learning conditions.
He noted that investing in education remains a shared responsibility, especially for individuals who have benefited from public support systems.
He stressed that many professionals who have attained success are expected to give back to institutions that contributed to their development. Education, he believes, continues to serve as a strong driver of national transformation when properly supported.
He revealed that similar projects have been completed in other institutions within the region, including Tamale Senior High School, which also received new classroom facilities. These interventions, he indicated, demonstrate commitment to strengthening education infrastructure.
He added that some Islamic educational institutions have also benefited from support under the initiative. Community appeals, he said, guided the decision to extend assistance beyond mainstream secondary schools.
“So this is the little we can do to give back to institutions that made us. And I believe this can inspire many of you to give back when they have the opportunity.”
Dr Mohammed Amin Adam
He further urged students to appreciate the sacrifices of teachers, parents, and community leaders who support their academic journey. Success in education, he stressed, depends on shared responsibility between learners and institutions.
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