Catalysts For Change
Dear Lead For Ghana Community,
Welcome to this edition of Briefings From Lead For Ghana brought to you by Sentinel Asset Management . Here’s what to expect:
Transforming Numeracy Education with AI-Powered Teacher Support
Lead For Ghana in partnership with Shule Direct (Tanzania), and Effective Basic Services (eBASE) Africa (Cameroon), is pioneering a groundbreaking initiative to enhance numeracy skills in Ghana and Tanzania. Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this project leverages AI-driven assessment tools to strengthen teacher competencies and improve student learning outcomes.
Through a dynamic, data-powered platform, teachers will receive real-time insights, targeted resources, and AI-driven support to address key challenges in numeracy education. As part of this effort, a two-day workshop will equip teachers with the necessary skills to effectively use the Shule Direct platform, ensuring impactful instruction tailored to student needs.
By empowering educators with cutting-edge AI technology, this initiative aims to bridge learning gaps and transform numeracy education for primary school learners in Ghana and Tanzania.
Fellow Spotlight: Kana-ene Baalienu - Dedication and Creativity
In the heart of the North East Region of Ghana, at Gambaga Girls Senior High School, Kana-ene Baalienu is not just a teacher—he is a catalyst for change. As a 2023 Lead For Ghana Fellow, he has embarked on a mission to transform education by challenging traditional learning methods and fostering an environment where students can thrive.
Kana-ene’s journey into the fellowship began with curiosity. Initially discovering Lead For Ghana through Instagram, he later attended an information session organized at his university, the University for Development Studies, where he earned a Bachelor of Education in Basic Education. The opportunity to be part of a movement that champions innovation, leadership, and systematic change in education resonated deeply with him, leading him to apply.
A Challenging Yet Rewarding First Year
Transitioning into the fellowship came with a steep learning curve. Teaching in an all-girls school presented unique challenges, including understanding school culture and addressing student disengagement. Many students were accustomed to rigid, traditional teaching methods where they passively absorbed information rather than actively engaging in their learning. Kana-ene had to find innovative ways to captivate their attention and encourage participation.
Beyond the classroom, balancing academic responsibilities with extracurricular commitments was another hurdle. As the school’s volleyball coach, he had to manage his time effectively to train students while maintaining his teaching responsibilities. The experience tested his resilience, adaptability, and dedication to making a lasting impact.
Innovative Teaching Strategies for Impactful Learning
Determined to break away from passive learning, Kana-ene introduced project-based learning, encouraging students to identify and solve real-life problems related to science. He also implemented mixed-ability groupings, pairing stronger students with those who needed additional support, fostering peer learning and collaboration.
Recognizing the power of role models, he invited resource persons such as nurses and midwives to speak to students, particularly those aspiring to similar careers. Seeing professionals in their dream fields motivated students, making education more tangible and aspirational.
The results of these strategies have been remarkable. Initially, the class average on tests hovered around 35 to 45 out of 100. Through remedial classes, active engagement, and tailored teaching methods, the average has now risen to an impressive 82 out of 100, showcasing the tangible impact of his efforts.
Beyond the Classroom: Community Initiatives
Kana-ene’s commitment extends beyond academics. Identifying a lack of confidence in public speaking among students, he launched a campus news initiative where students present weekly news updates, enhancing their communication skills. Additionally, recognizing the high rate of teenage pregnancies in the region, he organized awareness programs to educate students on reproductive health.
A major capstone project is the renovation of the school’s science laboratory. Currently in a deteriorated state with inadequate equipment, the fellows have drafted a proposal to secure funding to refurbish the facility, ensuring students have access to practical science education.
Lessons and Advice for Future Fellows
“Patience and adaptability are key. Education is a complex system, and progress is not always linear. Embrace challenges as learning opportunities, build strong relationships with students and the community, and most importantly, not be afraid to innovate.”
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Alumni Spotlight: Godfred Ahlijah - Dedication To Social Change
A Second Chance at Purpose
Godfred first encountered Lead For Ghana during his third year at the University of Ghana, where he pursued a degree in Social Work and Sociology. The organization’s mission resonated deeply with his personal values, inspiring him to apply. However, his initial attempt to join the fellowship was unsuccessful. Undeterred, he spent time teaching in private institutions and reflecting on his broader purpose.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, as the world paused, Godfred found clarity. His commitment to education and social impact reignited, leading him to reapply for the fellowship. This time, he was accepted. Assigned to a school in the Western North Region, he faced immediate challenges: unstable electricity, poor internet connectivity, and a severe lack of resources. But rather than be discouraged, Godfred saw an opportunity to make a difference.
Transforming a School, Transforming Lives
Teaching English and later Mathematics due to a staff shortage, Godfred quickly realized that his role extended beyond the classroom. He saw firsthand how resource limitations hindered learning, and he decided to act. With determination, he co-authored a grant proposal that successfully secured funding for a library and science resource center in his school. The impact was immediate: more students engaged with books, literacy levels improved, and the community’s approach to education transformed. The facility remains a beacon of hope, attracting further support from NGOs and ensuring sustained educational advancement.
Godfred’s dedication extended beyond the two-year fellowship. His experiences shaped his career trajectory, reinforcing his belief that education is the most effective tool to break the cycle of poverty. Today, as a Project Officer and Social Worker at the Street Children Empowerment Foundation in Accra, he continues to champion literacy and learning opportunities for underserved youth.
Leading the Charge for Literacy
Godfred currently leads the Reading is Basic (RIB) project, supported by BookAid International UK and the Rotary Club, to combat the critical issue of learning poverty. In Ghana, many children struggle with literacy by age 10, often leading to school dropouts. Through RIB, he equips underserved schools with essential library resources, ensuring that students not only stay in school but also develop the foundational skills needed for lifelong success. His work plays a vital role in reducing dropout rates and preventing streetism, empowering vulnerable children with the tools to build a brighter future.
Advice for Future Fellows
Reflecting on his journey, Godfred encourages current and prospective fellows to embrace the experience fully.
“The fellowship will test your resilience, but it will also realign your purpose. Open yourself to learning, unlearning, and new experiences. The impact you seek is often in the most unexpected places.”
Education News In Africa
Africa: African schools prepare for the AI revolution
The growing awareness and availability of low-cost, AI-driven tools are making them more accessible to many across the continent, offering opportunities to develop locally tailored digital solutions to improve learning.AI tools, both free and affordable, are gaining traction among those with smartphones and internet access. While governments and lawmakers grapple with the implications of AI technology, millions of individuals are already leveraging its capabilities. (Source: IPP Media)
Ghana: Bridging the gap: The case for equitable and efficient education funding
For many children in Ghana, the promise of education remains unfulfilled. Despite significant increases in school enrolment over the past decades, more than 1.9 million children of basic school-going age (4–14 years) were out of school as of 2023. Additionally, many children who are in school are not acquiring foundational literacy and numeracy skills. (Source: CitiNewsRoom)
Youthful Leadership: H.E. John Dramani Mahama Entrusts Ghana’s Future to the Next Generation
The future of Ghana lies in its youth, and President John Dramani Mahama has demonstrated remarkable vision by appointing young leaders to key positions of national responsibility. His recent appointments send a strong message of hope and renewal, underscoring his belief in the potential of young people to shape Ghana’s future. ( Source: Modern Ghana)
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The work we do is made possible by generous donations and grants from well-wishers and individuals who strongly want to see Ghana and Africa thrive. For us to continue the work we do and expand educational opportunities to all children in Ghana, we are counting on you to support our work by becoming a donor to our cause. Thank you so much and we look forward to you joining our donor community.
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Attended University of Cape Coast
3 周Great work