By Ashiadey Dotse
President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the government has secured a $300 million facility from the World Bank to upgrade 50 senior high schools across the country under the Secondary Education Reform for Access, Results and Jobs (STARR-J) initiative.
Speaking during the commissioning of a PET scan facility in Accra on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, President Mahama said the programme is aimed at improving access, quality and equity in Ghana’s education system.
He explained that under the initiative, 30 Category C schools will be upgraded to Category B, while 20 Category B schools will be elevated to Category A status.
The President said education remains the foundation of national development, noting that behind every successful professional is a teacher who has played a key role in shaping their future.
He said this makes it essential for the government to continue investing in education and teacher development.
According to President Mahama, the project will also include the construction of new schools in urban and peri-urban areas to reduce pressure on existing boarding facilities and make education more accessible to students within their communities.
He added that teachers will benefit from continuous professional development programmes to strengthen their skills in digital literacy, critical thinking and the integration of artificial intelligence into teaching and learning.
President Mahama further revealed that the initiative is expected to help eliminate the double-track system by 2027, creating a more effective learning environment for students and teachers.
He also highlighted recent reforms in the teaching profession, stating that promotions are now based on merit, experience and performance rather than the availability of administrative positions.
The President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Ghana’s education sector, describing the STARR-J initiative as a major step towards building a more inclusive and future-ready education system.
