GES boss opens smart classroom block at OWASS under digital learning initiative

The Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), Professor Ernest Kofi Davis, has opened a new classroom block at Opoku Ware Senior High School. This is part of the Ghana Smart Classrooms Project in Kumasi, Ashanti Region.

The new building has 12 classrooms. It replaces an old 2-classroom facility. Each classroom is designed for modern digital learning. They include interactive smart screens and tablets for every student.

Students will have reliable internet access to enhance their learning experience. Solar-powered charging cabinets promote sustainable energy use. The furniture is ergonomic, ensuring comfort and focus during lessons.

Teachers will use the KATON360 Learning Management System. This platform allows for interactive teaching and real-time assessments.

At the ceremony, Prof. Davis emphasized that today’s classrooms are more than just four walls. They are dynamic spaces where technology fosters curiosity and collaboration. He assured that the government will continue to support effective educational policies.

Prof. Davis also mentioned plans to improve internet infrastructure for smart schools. He noted that measures would be taken to address security and privacy concerns in digital education.

Rev. Father Stephen Owusu Sekyere, President of CHASS, praised the initiative as a bold step for education in Ghana. However, he urged that all schools should benefit from this project equally.

He stressed that every second-cycle school must receive smart classroom upgrades, regardless of location or resources available.

The Ghana Smart Classrooms Project aims to transform existing public senior high school facilities into smart environments for digital learning. New structures will also be built where needed.

Under this project, students will receive free computer tablets for learning purposes. Teachers will get laptops to aid research and teaching efforts as well.

Both devices come preloaded with essential learning materials like textbooks. This initiative aims to improve educational quality in beneficiary schools.

The event was attended by students and heads of Senior High Schools from the region. The theme was “Smart Schools; the future of digital education.”