Report By: Ishmael Barfi
The Ghanaian and Japanese governments have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Ghana’s education system through a collaborative effort.
The two countries reaffirmed their commitment at a Japan-Ghana Education Forum held on Thursdsy, 20th March 2025, at the premises of the University of Ghana organised by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Ghana.
The education forum brought together students, educators, and policymakers from both countries to share best practices and discuss ways to improve Ghana’s education system.
The forum aimed to facilitate a cross-cultural dialogue on education and national responsibility.
In her address, Japan’s Ambassador to Ghana, Hiroshi Yoshimoto, indicated that Japan’s education model emphasizes discipline, responsibility, and teamwork, which are essential for economic and social success
She believed that, these principles can be beneficial to Ghana if adapted effectively,” he stated.
The forum featured a screening of “The Making of a Japanese,” a documentary showcasing Japan’s basic school system.
The film ignited a conversation on whether Ghanaian schools are doing enough to instil discipline, teamwork, and national responsibility in students.
On her part, Chief Representative of JICA Ghana, Momoko Suzuki, emphasized that education should go beyond the classroom.
“It’s not only about passing exams; it’s about developing life skills, teamwork, and understanding one’s role in society,” she explained.
The forum also saw Ghanaian and Japanese students engage in thought-provoking discussions about their respective education systems.
While Ghanaian students praised the flexibility and creativity in their academic curriculum, their Japanese counterparts emphasized the benefits of structure and discipline.
Meanwhile, Professor Lloyd Amoah, Director of the Centre for Asian Studies at the University of Ghana, challenged Ghanaians to re-examine their approach to education and national responsibility.
“We love our cities, our surroundings, but are we as orderly as we should be? Japan has a collective sense of self, and we can learn from that. We need to instil discipline in our society, starting from the classroom,” he remarked.
The event marks another step in JICA Ghana’s efforts to strengthen educational cooperation between Ghana and Japan.
With JICA’s support for teacher training and curriculum development in Ghana since 2015, stakeholders believe that such initiatives will lead to practical changes in Ghana’s education system.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
