Art, Craft, Needlework: Return to Foundational Education
The Ministry of Education, led by Haruna Iddrisu, announced on August 5, 2025, the reintroduction of Art, Craft, and Needlework into the foundational curriculum starting next academic year. The move, revealed during a stakeholder meeting with Eastern Region SHS Home Economics teachers, aims to foster creativity and practical skills.
Iddrisu emphasized a holistic education approach, blending academic subjects with hands-on learning to enhance critical thinking and cultural appreciation. The reform targets over 2.5 million foundational learners, ensuring proficiency in literacy, numeracy, and creative expression to prepare them for an innovation-driven future.
By reintroducing Art, Craft, and Needlework, we are providing our youngest learners with the tools to develop their creative skills, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for our cultural heritage.”
The initiative aligns with the government’s education strategy to balance global standards and national identity. It responds to calls from educators for practical subjects, complementing the Free SHS program’s expansion, which now includes 60 private schools, to nurture a well-rounded workforce.
The Ministry will work with curriculum experts and educators to ensure a smooth nationwide rollout, with teacher training programs set to begin in January 2026. The policy builds on recent reforms, including WASSCE practical funding and tertiary fee support for cocoa farmers’ children.
Educators, especially in creative disciplines, have praised the move as a vital investment in Ghana’s youth. The reintroduction aims to equip students with skills for industries like fashion and design, supporting economic growth and cultural preservation.