The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has called on Ghanaians to actively engage in community development efforts and not rely solely on political leaders to address development challenges.
The call was made during the regional launch of USAID's Strengthening Accountability in Ghana's Education System (SAGES) Activity in Wa.
Mr. Paul Napari, the Agreement Officer's Representative (AOR) of the USAID/Ghana SAGES Activity, emphasised the need for individual and community involvement in development.
He stated, “Stop blaming the president, stop blaming the ministers, I am not saying they are angels… But if we don't rise to the occasion, it won't change anything.”
The USAID's SAGES Activity aims to enhance the performance of education system actors and their interactions in northern Ghana.
This five-year, $60 million initiative also focuses on improving primary education by promoting accountability.
Mr. Napari stressed the importance of citizen support for political leaders, highlighting that the performance disparities between private and public schools were influenced by the commitment of the managers.
The US Government is committed to supporting Ghana's education sector, as it believes education can drive individual and national development.
This support aims to establish a high-performing and accountable education system.
The SAGES Activity complements the Education Accountability Framework developed through the World Bank-funded Ghana Accountability for Learning Outcomes Project.
It equips students, teachers, parents, and administrators with tools to excel and empowers communities to demand quality education.
Madam Rose Tchwenko, the Country Director of CARE International, acknowledged the Government's efforts to improve access to quality education.
The SAGES Activity will build on existing educational frameworks and leverage successes to make a significant impact.
Mr. Salifu Issifu Kanton, the Executive Director of the Community Development Alliance (CDA) Ghana, described the launch of the SAGES Activity as a significant milestone in Ghana's education history.
He emphasised the role of regional stakeholders in driving the Activity to achieve the expected results.
Nana Baffour Awuah, the Director of Pre-Tertiary at the Ministry of Education, outlined how the Activity would hold education managers accountable.
It will ensure that every child has access to quality education, and every teacher has access to the necessary resources and support for success.
Kuoro Osman Deiwia, the Paramount Chief of the Pulima Traditional Area in the Sissala West District, recommended the use of technology to monitor teacher performance and improve productivity.
Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih, the Upper West Regional Minister, highlighted the crucial role of education and accountability in societal development.
He assured the SAGES Activity implementers of the Regional Coordinating Council's support in improving education in the region.
The SAGES Activity is set to be implemented in 17 districts across four regions, benefiting numerous schools, communities, and pupils.
Care International will oversee the project in the Upper West Region in collaboration with CDA Ghana.
