Mr. Hiroshi Yoshimoto, Ambassador of Japan to Ghana, has expressed Japan’s eagerness to partner with and support Ghana’s Ministry of Education in its education sector reform and development.
He stated that the partnership would focus on curriculum development, teacher capacity building, and character development for learners, especially at the primary school level.
Mr. Yoshimoto made this known at the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Ghana’s Exchange Event with students from the University of Tokyo and University of Ghana.
The event aimed to facilitate cross-cultural dialogue between the students of the two universities and promote a deeper understanding of the educational systems in both countries through idea exchange.
Mr. Yoshimoto noted that Japan was open to sharing its successful education traits with Ghana to enhance the country’s education system.
“We will look at key aspects of Japanese-style education that Ghana could adapt, not only academic, but also extracurricular activities, including duties and tasks,” he said.
“Through grades one to six, children can develop a sense of responsibility and teamwork, which is crucial for them to become good citizens and adults,” he added.
Mr. Yoshimoto explained that the sense of responsibility and teamwork in Japan was developed at elementary school, where children honed their basic character traits.
He said that Japanese education took a holistic approach, emphasizing not just academic ability but also the importance of a rich mind and healthy body.
“The belief is that every part of school life and activities has educational value, including tasks like cleaning classrooms and serving meals,” he said.
Ms. Momoko Suzuki, Chief Representative of JICA Ghana, stressed that educational development was vital for economic growth.
She noted that education should focus not only on academic knowledge but also on soft skills like teamwork and leadership.
“Soft skills are very important for employability. So, for children to grow up and be able to pursue more opportunities, I think these kinds of soft skills and also understanding their position in society, and how they can contribute to society, is very important,” she said.
Professor Lloyd Amoah, Director of the Centre for Asian Studies at the University of Ghana, expressed hope that the partnership would help build a more sensitive and collective education system, fostering self-awareness and community development in learners.
He added that while Japan’s education system may seem different, it was not far removed from Ghana’s, as it was simply more organized and intentional.
“We should be open to learning from what is out there and combine it with what we are doing here to improve our education system,” he said.
GNA
