Education losing its purpose as schools become examination centres – Dr Addai-Amanfo laments
A lecturer at the Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Dr Barnabas Addai-Amanfo, has expressed concern that many schools in Ghana have turned into examination centres rather than true learning institutions.
He said the growing obsession with results has overshadowed the broader purpose of education, which is to equip students with practical knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Dr Barnabas Amanfo made the remarks during a panel discussion on Otec FM’s morning show Nyansapo, hosted by Kwaku Owusu Boateng on Friday, February 20, 2026.
He noted that some basic and senior high schools now focus heavily on examination outcomes at the expense of genuine understanding and creativity.
According to him, the trend has entrenched a culture of teaching to the test, where teachers prioritise likely examination questions and memorisation techniques over deep learning.
“Instead of nurturing curiosity and practical skills, the system is structured around how to pass exams,” he said, adding that such an approach limits the intellectual growth of students.
He lamented that rather than shaping children with knowledge and habits that prepare them for life after school, many institutions concentrate solely on grades.
“Education should not just be about certificates. It should be about competence and character,” Dr Barnabas Amanfo stressed.
The lecturer further linked the development to the rising unemployment rate in the country.
Dr Barnabas Addai- Amanfo argued that many graduates struggle to secure jobs because they lack the skills needed in the workplace, despite holding academic certificates.
“We are producing students who can pass exams but cannot translate what they have learnt into solving real-world problems,” he stated.
Dr Barnabas Amanfo appealed to basic and senior high schools to reorient their focus towards holistic education that emphasises practical knowledge, innovation, and problem-solving.
He urged stakeholders in the education sector to review teaching approaches to ensure that students are prepared not only to succeed in examinations but also to thrive in the world of work.
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Francis Appiah
