The current National Democratic Congress NDC Presidential Running mate and former Minister for Education, Professor Nana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has shared insights into her educational background, political journey, and the complexities of governance in Ghana.
Professor Opoku- Agyeman reflections covered her early life, education, and her influential role in shaping national policy, particularly in the education sector. Professor Opoku-Agyemang began by clarifying a common misconception about her secondary school education, stating;
“I never attended Aburi Girls’, I went to Wesley Girls’ from Form 1… to Upper 6.”
Professor Nana Jane Opoku-Agyemang NDC Presidential Running mate
This clarification laid the foundation for a deeper understanding of her early education. Before Wesley Girls, she attended the Presbyterian Demonstration School, which was also a boarding school for girls.
This formative education played a crucial role in shaping Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s future, as she transitioned into national politics. Her experiences in these institutions exposed her to leadership, discipline, and the value of education, principles that would later guide her policies as Minister for Education
Moreover, Professor Opoku-Agyemang pointed out her involvement in national politics which took a significant turn when she was selected as the running mate in the 2020 election and again in 2024. Reflecting on the 2024 selection, she remarked, “Yes, it was a surprise because, honestly, you never think you’re the only person qualified for any role. There are always other deserving candidates.”
However, Professor Opoku-Agyeman acknowledged that the flagbearer’s satisfaction with her performance in 2020 likely influenced the decision to select her again. This selection marked a shift in her political career, as she moves from managing the Ministry of Education to playing a more central role in national politics.
Professor Opoku-Agyeman emphasized that the transition from her ministerial duties to the campaign trail in 2020 required her to build a closer working relationship with the flagbearer, which laid the groundwork for their renewed collaboration in 2024.
Ministerial Experience and Educational Policies
During her tenure as Minister for Education, Professor Opoku-Agyemang oversaw a wide range of initiatives aimed at improving Ghana’s education system. Professor Opoku-Agyeman highlighted the complexity of the education sector;
“People often don’t realize that education is one of the largest sectors in the country. When I was there, we had about 650,000 public workers, with over half of them working in education.”
Professor Nana Jane Opoku-Agyemang NDC Presidential Running mate
Managing this vast workforce, along with the challenges of ensuring quality education for millions of students was no small feat. According to Professor Opoku-Agyemang her legacy in the Ministry of Education is often associated with the construction of E-Blocks and other educational infrastructure. However, Professor Opoku-Agyeman emphasized that her work went beyond physical structures.
“It wasn’t just about constructing buildings. We were also looking at student performance data, identifying challenges, and figuring out how to improve education at all levels.’’
Professor Nana Jane Opoku-Agyemang NDC Presidential Running mate
Despite her accomplishments, Professor Opoku-Agyemang faced criticism regarding financial management in the ministry responding to allegations of debts left behind.
“When you’re running a ministry, or any large organization for that matter, debts are part of the landscape [when] financial management is ongoing.”
Professor Nana Jane Opoku-Agyemang NDC Presidential Running mate
Professor Opoku-Agyeman’s response underscored the continuous nature of governance and financial oversight in large public institutions, where both debts and assets are inherited by successive administrations. As a key member of the 2024 manifesto committee, Professor Opoku-Agyemang emphasized the importance of involving as many voices as possible in shaping national policy.
Professor Opoku-Agyeman explained that the manifesto process in 2020 was driven by the flagbearer’s “Speak Out Tours,” which gathered input from everyday Ghanaians. This approach, which she called the “People’s Manifesto,” was designed to reflect the needs and aspirations of the citizens.
In 2024, the manifesto process followed a similar path, with Professor Opoku-Agyemang noting that, while it was more tedious and required more patience, the involvement of diverse perspectives made the final product stronger. She remarked, “Even if it takes more time and effort, the results are worth it.”
This inclusive approach to manifesto development represents Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s broader philosophy of leadership and governance. She emphasized the importance of listening to all stakeholders.
“Whether you’re managing a small business or a large organization the principle is the same, listen to everyone even the security guard or the cleaner. You’d be surprised at how much you can learn from them.”
Professor Nana Jane Opoku-Agyemang NDC Presidential Running mate
Education Reform and Language Policy
Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s passion for education reform extends beyond infrastructure and administrative efficiency. One of her key advocacies is the promotion of local languages in education.
Professor Opoku-Agyeman argued that teaching children in their first language is crucial for their academic success and personal development.
“Research shows that children learn best in their first language, the language they speak at home.”
Professor Nana Jane Opoku-Agyemang NDC Presidential Running mate
This advocacy is based on the belief that language acquisition is central to human development. Despite decades of using English as the medium of instruction, many Ghanaian children still struggle with the language. Professor Opoku-Agyemang proposed that a stronger foundation in local languages would make it easier for students to pick up other languages, including English, later within the education sector. Citing UNESCO research.
“Children who learn in their first language perform better in other subjects, including English.”
Professor Nana Jane Opoku-Agyemang NDC Presidential Running mate
This approach to education is not just about academic success; it is also about preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage.
By focusing on local languages, Professor Opoku-Agyemang believes that Ghana can both improve educational outcomes and promote cultural identity. “It’s about recognizing the value of who we are and where we come from,” she asserted. Professor Nana Jane Opoku-Agyemang provided a comprehensive look at her journey from education to politics and her enduring commitment to national development.
According to Professor Opoku-Agyemang, her experiences in both the educational sector and national politics have shaped her vision for Ghana’s future. As the country approaches the 2024 elections, her focus remains on inclusive governance, educational reform, and the empowerment of all Ghanaians, regardless of their background or status.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s reflections on her political journey, ministerial experience, and educational philosophy highlighted the complexities of governance in Ghana.
Professor Opoku- Agyemang’s emphasis on inclusivity, local languages, and the continuous nature of financial management in public institutions provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the country.
