A member of Parliament’s Mines and Energy Committee, Edward Bawa, has expressed his disappointment with Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s comments regarding the need for a load-shedding timetable by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
Dr. Prempeh also known as NAPO challenged those advocating for ECG to issue a load-shedding timetable to come up with their own proposed schedules.
At the inauguration of the NPP campaign team in the Ashanti Region, he urged critics to create their own timetable if they believe it’s necessary. He questioned the rationale behind creating a timetable when ECG has stated that there is no such plan in place.
In an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Eyewitness News on Citi FM, Mr Bawa indicated that the Energy Minister’s comments demonstrated the government’s lack of concern for Ghanaians.
“First and foremost, let me state that the comment by Honourable Matthew Opoku Prempeh is very unfortunate. It is a sign that we have a group of people who simply cannot care about how people feel. You can feel arrogance in his comments. You can feel disrespect for even the people who made you, who by their grace made you who you are in terms of being a minister of state,” he stated.
He also suggested that the Minister’s remarks revealed his anger and disrespect towards Ghanaians who have contributed to his current position.
The Ministry of Energy has provided clarification over recent remarks made by the sector minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, regarding the release of a timetable for ongoing power outages.
Dr. Prempeh challenged those advocating for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to issue a load-shedding timetable to present their own proposed schedules. During the inauguration of the NPP campaign team in the Ashanti Region, he encouraged critics to develop their own timetables if they deemed it necessary.
He questioned the rationale behind creating a timetable when the ECG has confirmed that no such plan is in place.
His comments during an interview with a JoyNews journalist have received criticism from scores of Ghanaians.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, March 26, and signed by the Minister’s spokesperson, Kofi Abrefa Afena, the Energy Ministry noted that “the rather innocuous statements of the Minister as captured by the interview have been distorted to portray him as being insensitive to the plight of Ghanaians.”
The statement clarified that the Minister holds respect for Ghanaians, as has been his attitude, and did not intend to disrespect citizens.
According to the statement, Dr Opoku Prempeh asserted that there was no need for the release of a timetable for the recent power outages due to the fact that work was being done to ensure the consistent supply of power.
“The Minister dismissed the need for a load management time table because in his view and as indicated by the Electricity Company of Ghana, the causes of the temporary power chalenges are being addressed.”
“The Honourable Minister has always been sensitive to the plight of the Ghanaian people and continues to ask for their forbearance, as has always been the case when challenges relative ot power stability emerge.”
“The Ministry wishes to assure the general public that the Ministry as the policy maker and mother agency of the various power sector actors is working assiduously with these agencies to ensure that the temporary challenges are resolved,” the statement concluded.
Former coach of KumasiAsante Kotoko, Isaac Adade Opeele Boateng, also known as Coach Opeele, expressed bewilderment at the comments made by Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the Minister of Energy, regarding the current power situation in the country.
The former assistant coach of the national U-17 team was surprised by the remarks made by the minister, commonly referred to as NAPO, on Monday, March 25, 2024.
Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) account to react, Coach Opeele posted, “I am speechless! SMH.”
In a subsequent tweet, Coach Opeele cautioned the New Patriotic Party (NPP) about the potential consequences if their members are not disciplined.
Known for his vocal support of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP flagbearer, Coach Opeele emphasized that “arrogance and self-aggrandizement” could hinder the NPP’s chances of success in the upcoming elections.
“Phony, unaccountable, untrustworthy and arrogant attitudes would not break the 8. NPP UNEXPECTEDLY won power from the NDC in 2016 and proclaimed, ‘Ghanaians are not fools. In 2024, Ghanaians won’t be fools to vote for a display of arrogance and self-aggrandisement! Be humble,” he stated.
Coach Opeele’s remarks come in response to statements made by the Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, suggesting that Ghanaians requesting a load-shedding timetable should devise one themselves.
In a seemingly lighthearted response to a journalist’s question, captured in a video shared by JoyNews on X, the minister expressed his belief that there is no necessity for a timetable when the power distributor claims that the current situation in the country does not warrant one.
“Ask those who want it to bring it, if there is one. I haven’t seen any timetable,” he stated.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh had earlier denied that the country has returned to the days of dumsor, as the erratic power supply in the country underJohn Dramani Mahama was referred to.
“If we are comparing four years, four years, NPP administration’s energy sector is 300 times better than John Mahama… it’s far much better than John Mahama ever did…
“I’ve promised you that we are going to work on it and it’s not a work that is a single event; it’s a process, and we’ll continue to work on it for the energy sector to become better,” he stated.
PHONY, UNACCOUNTABLE, UNTRUSTWORTHY and ARROGANT ATTITUDE would not break the 8.
NPP UNEXPECTEDLY won power from the NDC in 2016 and pronounced, 'Ghanaians are not fools.'
In 2024, Ghanaians won't be fools to vote for a display of ARROGANCE and SELF-AGGRANDIZEMENT! Be Humble pic.twitter.com/nLuIwQ137q
Member of Parliament, John Jinapor, is pressing the Ministry of Energy and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) for transparency regarding ongoing power outages.
Over the past few weeks, the nation has experienced widespread power outages, commonly known as “dumsor.”
In response to these disruptions, the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) directed ECG to establish a load-shedding timetable.
However, ECG maintains there is no power crisis, attributing the unstable supply to faulty transformers.
Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh has refuted claims of “dumsor,” challenging the public to devise their own timetable if they believe a crisis exists.
John Jinapor argues that the energy sector faces generation challenges impacting distribution. He suggests PURC focus on improving generation rather than mandating a load-shedding schedule.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on March 25, Jinapor expressed dismay at the Minister’s response, accusing him of politicizing sector challenges.
Executive Director of the Institute of Energy Security, Nana Amoasi VII, supports Jinapor’s stance, asserting that ECG and the Energy Ministry are obligated to provide a timetable amid outages.
Nana Amoasi VII criticized the Minister’s dismissal of demands for a timetable, suggesting it demonstrates a lack of awareness and disrespect toward consumers’ rights.
“I am very, very surprised even at the PURC directive because the main problem is generation, it has nothing to do with transformers. I thought that the PURC would have done its investigation to indeed determine that there is a generation shortfall.
“If there is a generation shortfall, the outage that occurs at the bulk supply point is controlled by GRIDCo. So GRIDCo will then have to inform ECG which bulk supply point will go off, then ECG will inform its consumers. As we speak there is a deficit in terms of generation and until that is resolved we will continue to have the load shedding we are experiencing.”
“I am very shocked and surprised that the minister would give such contradictory and counter instructions. He should know better that we are shedding load, and even in his interview, he couldn’t refute it. He admitted that yes, they are shedding load, but in his opinion, it is better than during President Mahama’s time. And so what? That is the question. Let’s assume it’s better, so people should not be given a timetable to plan because, in the minister’s opinion, it is better.
“If you admit there is load-shedding, give the people the timetable to plan. And when the people request that the outages are becoming too frequent, give us the timetable to plan, the minister says ‘that those requesting the timetable should go and prepare the timetable themselves. It is extremely unfortunate, very insulting,” he added.
Former Deputy Minister of Information, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has criticized Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO, over his recent remarks concerning the ongoing power supply issues, commonly referred to as “dumsor” in Ghana.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh made these comments in response to government critics who have been calling for a schedule for the irregular power supply.
However, during an interview, the energy minister dismissed the necessity for a schedule, suggesting that those requesting one should devise it themselves.
In response to the minister’s remarks, Felix Kwakye Ofosu took to Twitter to denounce Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s stance, stating, “This is an astonishing display of arrogance and disrespect towards Ghanaians who are enduring uncomfortable power cuts.
“Even the comical Bawumia would know better than picking him as running mate,” he tweeted.
In a video shared by JoyNews on X, the minister responded to a journalist’s question in a playful manner, stating that he sees no requirement for a timetable when the power distributor asserts that the current situation in the country does not warrant one.
“Ask those who want it to bring it, if there is. I haven’t seen any timetable,” he stated.
Opoku Prempeh, known as NAPO, previously refuted claims that Ghana had reverted to the era of dumsor, which occurred during the John Dramani Mahama administration.
He stated that the country was instead facing ‘dum sie sie,’ referring to outages for routine equipment maintenance.
This is an astonishing display of arrogance and disrespect towards Ghanaians who are enduring uncomfortable power cuts. Even the comical Bawumia would know better than picking him as running mate. https://t.co/CXwSAZvR4C
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has demanded the resignation of Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, following his remarks on the ‘dumsor’ timetable requested by Ghanaians.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh, who serves as the Energy Minister, disregarded the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission’s (PURC) call for a load-shedding timetable, despite the urgent need due to the country’s unstable power supply.
The PURC had directed the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to furnish a load management schedule by April 2, 2024, given the ongoing electricity supply challenges.
However, Dr. Opoku Prempeh questioned the necessity of such a timetable, challenging those advocating for it to present their proposed schedules instead.
During the inauguration of the NPP campaign team in the Ashanti Region, he urged critics to devise their own timetables if they deemed it necessary.
The NDC condemned the Minister’s remarks, denouncing them as irresponsible.
Deputy General Secretary of the NDC, Mustapha Gbande, expressed the party’s dismay at Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s response to the PURC’s directive in an interview with Citi News.
He suggested that Dr. Prempeh’s comments reflect poorly on the caliber of individuals serving in President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s government.
“I think I saw Napo’s face, and I saw him grant the interview. You could easily associate that to a man who is frustrated because, obviously, he may not be given the running mate or a man who is drunk. Otherwise, on a clean face of an energy minister who owes responsibility to the people of Ghana to explain to Ghanaians the energy crisis, we don’t make this kind of commentary. They are very unfortunate. They are very irrational. They are very insensitive to the plight of Ghanaians. I was in Oti region over the weekend. It is ‘adomdomadomdom.’ You can’t even power your air condition. Ghanaians are crying and asking that give us a timetable so that we can rationalise our businesses in accordance with the timetable, and you are insulting them.”
“These are the kinds of men that President Akufo-Addo have. This is the kind of liability they have imposed on the finances of this country, who continue to freeze and get paid with taxpayers’ money only to come and spill baggage and irresponsibility back to the people of Ghana… It is clear that we have a useless government in place. We have a bunch of people who do not have the capacity and intellectuality to understand the economy and the problems surrounding it. Let him be responsible. Clearly, the energy minister is not responsible.
Ghana’s Energy Sector Minister,Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) has attracted the rage of netizens after a video of his responses and reaction to questions on the recent power outages the country is currently facing popped up.
Speaking at the inauguration of the NPP campaign team in the Ashanti Region, Dr Opoku Prempeh sent a message to Ghanaians who have called for a load-shedding timetable due to the erratic power supply those in need of one should create one for themselves since they badly need one.
According to him, there is no need for a timetable, especially when the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has said otherwise.
He made the disclosure during a media engagement on March 25, 2024.
See reactions below:
The Minister is very rude ,The way he’s responding to their questions is awful.
Minister for Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO’s posture and attitude during a media engagement on Ghana’s recent power outages has sparked fierce debate on social media.
During an interview at a random event on March 25, 2024, the minister was questioned about the recent power outages and the measures his outfit was taking to resolve the problem.
In his response, he admitted that the country has for the past few weeks, been experiencing power outages but his ministry was working on it.
After admitting to dumsor in his first response on the question;
Journalist said, “But we are still experiencing dumsor.”
NAPO: Nobody has said we haven’t. I’m just saying it’s much more better than what John Mahama did.”
However, he appeared to dissociate himself from using the word ‘dumsor’ in his earlier response.
NAPO: That is the word you used. I never used that. I promised you we were going to work on it. It is not a work that is a single event.
If you are comparing four years-four years NPP administration, the energy sector is three hundred times better than John Mahama. Nobody has said we haven’t but I’mjust saying that its far better than what John Mahama ever did”.
Energy Minister Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh says those calling for a load-shedding timetable should release one themselves.#NewsCentralpic.twitter.com/tVCM1H6dHj
Minister of Energy Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh says those calling for a load-shedding timetable should release one themselves.
He made these remarks during a media engagement on March 25, 2024, after questions about when a load-shedding timetable would be released following the recent power outages the country has been experiencing.
NAPO in response, said, “Ask those who want it to bring it, if there is , I haven’t seen any timetable. When you say bring a timetable, what do you mean.
The ECG says that there is no timetable so why are you asking for a timetable?” he fumed.
Energy Minister Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh says those calling for a load-shedding timetable should release one themselves.#NewsCentralpic.twitter.com/tVCM1H6dHj
“Dumsor” is a Ghanaian term that describes the frustrating experience of frequent power outages or load shedding. It originates from the combination of two local languages: “dum,” meaning off, and “sɔ,” meaning on. Essentially, it signifies a situation where electricity is intermittently available, causing disruptions in daily life and economic activities.
The term gained widespread attention in Ghana as a result of significant challenges in the country’s energy sector. These challenges have led to inconsistent electricity supply, causing frequent and prolonged power outages.
Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has addressed the recent power supply disruptions across Ghana.
In his message to Ghanaians who have called for a load-shedding timetable due to the erratic power supply, he noted that such people are wishing doom for the country.
According to him, there is no need for a timetable especially when the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has said otherwise.
“Let those who want the timetable bring it. What do you mean? I don’t know of any timetable because the ECG has said it is not necessary. Why would someone just wish evil for the country?” he asked.
In recent weeks, various areas have experienced interruptions in electricity supply, leading to dissatisfaction among citizens with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
The ECG has refused to describe the power outage as “dumsor”. It has attributed the outage to maintenance issues.
But the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) among other directives, has ordered the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to submit a comprehensive load management timetable by April 2, in response to recent power supply disruptions.
Energy Minister Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh says those calling for a load-shedding timetable should release one themselves.#NewsCentralpic.twitter.com/tVCM1H6dHj
Onua TV journalist Captain Smart continues to share insights into the political dynamics within the NPP following the passing of Ejisu MP and Deputy Finance Minister, John Kumah.
Previously, Smart had raised concerns about potential foul play leading to John Kumah’s demise, a sentiment that gained traction given the MP’s health struggles prior to his death.
Amidst heightened interest in his predictions, videos have surfaced featuring Smart discussing Matthew Opoku Prempeh, widely known as NAPO, the Manhyia South MP and a favored candidate for NPP Vice Presidential candidacy.
In these videos, Captain Smart alleges that NAPO is also at risk of being poisoned, echoing the fate of John Kumah.
Additionally, he asserts confidently that despite NAPO‘s popularity among party members, he will not be selected as the NPP’s Vice Presidential candidate due to opposition from influential figures within the party.
Watch Captain Smart’s commentary below for more insights…
A senior Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana, Dr. Kwame Asah-Asante, has suggested that Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh also known as NAPO is the ideal candidate for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s running mate.
Dr. Asah-Asante highlighted Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s outstanding competence in various capacities, making him a strong contender for the running mate position.
In an interview, Dr. Asah-Asante expressed confidence that Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s inclusion would bolster Dr. Bawumia’s electoral prospects in the upcoming 2024 elections.
He underscored Dr. Bawumia’s recognition of Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s strengths and advantages, ensuring a thoughtful and strategic decision-making process.
“As for me, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh is number one. In his area of work, he has demonstrated that he has what it takes to lead anytime the call comes and all that. So he will be Dr Bawumia’s top choice for his running mate,” he said.
On November 4, 2023, Vice President Dr. Bawumia secured the New Patriotic Party’s nomination for the presidential race, setting the stage for the upcoming December elections.
While Dr. Bawumia has not yet announced his running mate, several potential candidates have been speculated upon by analysts. Among them are Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Dr. John Kumah, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, Joseph Osei Owusu, and former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Prof. Opoku Onyinah.
Chief of Staff Frema Osei Opare and Communications Minister Ursula Owusu Ekulful have also been mentioned as possible contenders for the running mate position alongside Dr. Bawumia.
The ‘G Boys’, a burgeoning political faction within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Wenchi constituency of the Bono Region, made a pilgrimage to the gravesite of the late Professor Kofi Abrefa Busia over the weekend.
Their aim was to seek divine favor and ancestral blessings for Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh to be selected as the NPP’s Running Mate for the 2024 elections.
The group asserted that their research positioned Dr. Prempeh, who currently serves as the Minister of Energy and Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, as the frontrunner for the Running Mate position alongside Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s presidential candidate.
Led by their founder, Mr. Richard Kwadwo Adu, and accompanied by other members including Okyeame Nana Anto Nketiah, a linguist at the Wenchi Traditional Council, the group poured libations at the tomb of the late Prof. Busia. Prof. Busia, Ghana’s Second Prime Minister from 1962 to 1972, passed away in 1978.
Mr. Adu, a former NPP Youth Organiser in Wenchi, clarified that their visit to the tomb wasn’t solely to advocate for Dr. Prempeh but also to ensure the victory of the NPP in the 2024 elections.
“The NPP has its roots in Wenchi and we strongly believe that ancestral lineage of the late Prof Busia played an integral role in the appointment of the 2024 Running-mate for our great party,” he stated.
He explained although the outcome of the research conducted by the group confirmed Dr Prempeh as the best pair for Dr Bawumia, there was still need for the party to consult and sought favour from the ancestral spirit of the late Prof Busia for the “pair to break the eight in the Election 2024”.
Mr. Adu described Dr. Prempeh as dynamic and influential, suggesting that Alhaji Dr. Bawumia could effortlessly implement his digitalization agenda and usher in the fourth industrial revolution with him at the helm.
“In fact, the signs are clear and we are very optimistic that with the acceptance and approval of the late Prof Busia, Dr Bawumia would appoint Dr Prempeh as his running mate in the supreme interest of our great elephant party,” Mr Adu stated.
“Though the task of breaking the eight seems herculous for the party, with Dr Prempeh, the NPP can win the Election 2024, and break the eight to make the fourth industrial revolution a reality under Dr Bawumia government”, he added.
Mr. Adu mentioned that the “G Boys,” a group of roughly 200 people, had a track record. He recalled that in the 2008 general elections, Vice President Dr. Bawumia was preferred as President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s running mate based on earlier similar research.
“In fact, the late Prof Busia contributed exceptionally to our great party and to restore civilian government. So, it is imperative to consult and seek his favour and blessing for our great party anytime we head for a general election,” he stated.
The National Youth Wing of the ruling New Patriotic Party is advocating for their Presidential Candidate for the 2024 elections, H.E. Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to select Energy Minister and Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, commonly known as NAPO, as his running mate.
In an article penned by Deputy National Youth Organizer of the NPP, Isaac Jay Nii Amahtey Hyde, titled “Ensuing Debate of Who Best Pairs DMB,” he asserts that it’s imperative for the NPP to choose NAPO as the running mate to their Flagbearer.
According to Mr Hyde, the challenging task of #Breakingthe8 demands not only a candidate who adds to the numbers of the flagbearer but one with a proven track record and the ability to deliver results.
“One that answers the concerns of Ghanaians today, just like our current flagbearer resonated with voters in 2016 and 2020 on matters of the Economy. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh has demonstrated overtime is ability to cause change and deliver when it matters most. As a National Officer of the party, I’ve touched base with the grassroots and there’s no one in the NPP today, whose charisma energizes the base than Napo” he wrote.
“Bold and Decisive; His assertive nature makes him unconventional to what is ordinarily perceived of our politicians “sweet talkers”. Napo is blunt and very trustworthy. Engagement and Negotiation Skills; Napo’s ability to listen well and engage extensively has endeared him to various stakeholders. Throughout my service with him as NUGS President and as far as I remember there was never a strike by any group within the sector.
“He successfully delivered our major policy headliner in the last two National elections ie. Free SHS. He has something relatable to account for his stewardship. The implementation of the Double Track concept to ensure that no Ghanaian child was left behind in the FSHS agenda was a master stroke. He led the successful transition of in-person classroom teaching to online successfully in the advent of the COVID pandemic, at a time when online infrastructure and capacity of lecturers in most schools was almost nonexistent.
“His ingenuity led the GETFUND securitization that provided the needed funds for infrastructure development to mitigate facility user challenges that initially bedeviled this brilliant initiative. Napo is simply a doer!” he said
The Diaspora Patriotic Forum (DPF), a think tank affiliated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) operating abroad, recently conducted an extensive week-long opinion poll regarding the NPP’s 2024 vice presidential candidacy.
Utilizing the secure Survey Monkey Polls tool, the survey garnered responses from 621 participants, revealing a clear preference for Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, commonly known as Napo, as the favored running mate to Dr. Bawumia.
Out of the 620 respondents, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh secured a commanding 42.42% of the vote, totaling 263 votes. This substantial support among NPP sympathizers, external branch members, and executives worldwide positions him as a leading candidate.
Following at a distance were Dr. Osei Yaw Adutwum (23.23%), Kennedy Ohene Agyapong (12.58%), and others, with 2.10% indicating a preference for none of the listed candidates.
The reasons behind the respondents’ preferences reflect their priorities. A significant 29.15% highlighted the need for a candidate who complements Dr. Bawumia, adding value to the ticket through political experience and innovative ideas. Additionally, 21.34% emphasized the importance of the candidate’s ability to attract floating voters.
Interestingly, religious and gender balance were not prominent factors among the diaspora NPP support base.
Empirical evidence from the poll, coupled with in-depth conversations with external branch executives and members, strongly suggests that Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the current Minister for Energy and Member of Parliament for Manhyia North, is the preferred NPP vice presidential candidate in the diaspora.
The survey underscores the Diaspora Patriotic Forum’s commitment to providing a platform for NPP members and sympathizers to voice their opinions on party matters and national development affairs.
While the ultimate decision rests with NPP presidential candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the overwhelming support for Napo expressed by the diaspora NPP community adds a significant dimension to the party’s considerations for the 2024 general elections.
The DPF serves as a voluntary think tank for the New Patriotic Party in the diaspora, providing credible and reliable information, education, policies, and research to support the broader political agenda of the NPP.
Manhyia South MP, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, who is also the Minister for Energy, paid an amount of GHC200,000 to support the launch of a book on the History of Asanteman, authored by Otumfuo Sir Osei Agyeman Prempeh II.
After more than five decades since his passing, a book on the History of Asanteman, authored by Otumfuo Sir Osei Agyeman Prempeh II, has been launched in Kumasi.
Edited by Prof. Tom McCastie, a distinguished professor of Asante History at the Centre of West African Studies of the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom, the book serves as an autobiography of the 14th Asantehene, who reigned from 1931 to 1970.
The book launch was part of the activities commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Sagrenti War and the silver jubilee of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Many dignitaries were present and also made a contribution by purchasing the book.
Ernest Ofori Sarpong of Special Ice and businessman Osei Kwame Despite each gave GHC100,000. Cal Bank also bought a copy of the book for GHC50,000.
The individuals who purchased a copy of the book received a certificate and four tickets to attend Otumfuo’s dinner.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, praised the significance of the book in bridging gaps in Ashanti history and serving as a crucial research material on Asante History.
He noted that while there have been previous books on the history of Asanteman, none have been as comprehensive as the one authored by the late Otumfuo Sir Osei Agyeman Prempeh II and edited by one of the foremost experts on Asante history.
Dr. Adutwum also called upon writers of children’s books to consider creating children’s versions of the book to enhance its accessibility to younger audiences.
He emphasized that the book represents a comprehensive history of the Asante Kingdom and advocated for its presence on the shelves of every library in the country.
Prior to the book launch, a symposium was held to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Sagrenti War, a conflict between the British Colonial Army and the Asantes.
During the symposium, the Kumasi Centre for National Culture staged a play written by Emmanuel Jewel Peprah Mensah, depicting the events of the Sagrenti War. The purpose of the stage play was to provide the audience with an understanding of the war and its aftermath.
Prof. McCastie shared insights on the war, highlighting that besides the royal ornaments stolen from the palace, the British soldiers also looted gold and gold dust belonging to the then Asantehene Otumfuo Kofi Karikari.
He estimated the value of the stolen gold to be worth more than £2 billion. Prof. McCastie noted that some of the looted items, such as a brass basin used for spiritual cleansing, are still on display in museums in the UK, like the Military Museum in London.
Discussing the role of Asante women in the war, Prof. Eugenia Anderson of the History and Political Studies Department of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) highlighted their significant contributions to the sustenance of the Asante kingdom.
Although women of childbearing age faced socio-cultural barriers limiting their involvement at the war’s frontline, older women played active roles in the kingdom’s socio-political life.
Prof. Anderson cited the pivotal roles played by three Asante queenmothers—Afia Kobi, Nana Yaa Akyaa, and Yaa Asantewaa—in protecting the golden stool and safeguarding the Asante kingdom.
Energy Minister, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, if chosen as the running mate for New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, could help the party regain votes that have been lost to the leader of the Movement for Change, Alan Kyerematen.
This assertion has been communicated by Political Risk Analyst, Dr. Theo Acheampong, who holds the position that a running mate from the Ashanti Region could mitigate the effects the breakaway of Mr Kyerematen would have on the ruling party.
Delving into regionalism and apathy ahead of the 2024 general elections, Dr Acheampong stated that “the Akan vote (the biggest ethnic bloc) could fracture in unpredictable ways given Alan Kyeramaten’s breakaway Movement for Change. This, however, can also be mitigated by choice of running mate for the NPP. Most indications and sources point to NAPO becoming the running mate to VP Bawumia.”
In his February 5 post on X, the political risk analyst noted that “the NPP will sustain gains made in the Northeast of the country more so given VP Bawumia comes from there.”
“Other key battleground regions will be Central and Western,” he added.
Dr Acheamong noted that this assertion is not derived from a scientific approach, but rather, a hunch.
In September 2023, former presidential aspirant of the NPP, Alan Kyerematen, who is also a former Trade Minister exited the NPP due to challenges with electoral process, change in the aim of the party, among others.
He broke away to form the Movement for Change to enable him to contest the 2024 presidential elections as an Independent Candidate.
Many in the political field believe Alan’s exit will cost the NPP.
🇬🇭Ghana's 2024 Elections: Some Factors 🇬🇭
1. Swing voters: Swing voters in Greater Accra favouring Former President Mahama and the NDC; my hunch [unscientific opinion] is that the NDC will most likely win the Greater Accra region on account of recent economic issues [inflation &…
Atick Yakubu, a member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Communications Team, has articulated why, in his opinion, Energy Minister, Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh is the most suitable candidate to team up with Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the 2024 elections.
According to Mr Yakubu, the energy minister has demonstrated his capabilities since entering the political arena, making him the deserving candidate for the NPP’s victory in 2024.
He asserted that Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh’s successful implementation of the Free SHS policy, despite its challenges, showcases his courage and action-oriented approach, making him a valuable addition to the NPP ticket.
In Yakubu’s view, Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh’s unique qualities include boldness, lack of pretentiousness, open-mindedness, and confidence. He emphasizes that these attributes allow Opoku Prempeh to effectively convey the concerns of grassroots to potential leaders.
Yakubu supports Opoku Prempeh’s candidacy by highlighting the minister’s boldness and action-driven nature, particularly evidenced by his successful implementation of the Free SHS policy.
He believes that Opoku Prempeh’s achievements and innovative approaches, such as the double-track system, make him stand out among other potential running mates.
Concluding his opinion, Yakubu expresses his preference for Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh over other contenders, emphasizing the minister’s boldness and action-oriented character, which he believes will complement Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia effectively.
Read his opinion below:
A friend asked why I haven’t shared my opinion on the Running mate to DMB and I said this wasn’t an issue that’s why I have been mute. Not to be cheeky nor overly confident but it’s obvious Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO ) ticks all the requirements. It’s just as obvious that DMB going to be the Presidential candidate of NPP post-Nana Addo Presidency. In politics, at times, research is not needed. The Euphoria alone is enough data.
All those with interest in the Running mate position have either been MPs, former ministers, Ministers, or heads of agencies and organizations. The icing on the cake this time is someone from Ashanti Region and there’s no Ashanti as qualified as a Royal. I support the call from the region. But wait, what makes NAPO special? HE IS BOLD AND ACTION DRIVEN. Bold in the sense that he’s not pretentious, open-minded, and confident. Someone who can speak the mind of the grassroots to the will be president and ministers. NAPO is Bold. You can’t take that away from him.
All those seeking to be Running mates have chalked some success being it in politics or private life but what makes NAPO special in terms of achievement, what makes him stand tall? NAPO implemented the Free SHS policy. He was the minister who implemented FREE SHS with a brilliant innovation that curbed inadequate accommodation and infrastructure issues at our SHS. The double-track system was brilliant. Yeah, not even the opposition can’t Pooh Pooh on the Free SHS policy. It takes an action-driven person to successfully implement a flagship program. You ask me why I would choose him over anyone? I say he’s BOLD and ACTION DRIVEN. He will best compliment Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
The Ashanti Regional Chairman for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Bosiako Antwi, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi has revealed what happened during the vetting of candidates for the party’s parliamentary primaries.
According to Chairman Wontumi, he was a part of the panelists who had to take the aspiring Member of Parliament (MPs) through the vetting process.
He disclosed that during the process, he was reluctant to interrogate the Energy Minister, Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO because he had no questions to ask at that time.
“ I am a servant of NPP, the other day we were given an opportunity to interact with individuals who were coming for vetting. I had a lot of interaction with a lot until it got to the turn of NAPO. I told him I have no questions to ask him but the committee chairman, Nana B insisted I did,” he added.
Chairman Wontumi said he was compelled to engage NAPO after the National Organiser of the party, Henry Nana Boakye, (Nana B) who was also the chairman for the committee and the other panellists insisted he does.
He said that after throwing a question at NAPO, one of the panellists suggested they all bear witness to the good works of NAPO.
“I told him that I didn’t ask KT Hammond anything so I won’t do the same. NAPO sat close to 10 mins because I wasn’t willing to ask him anything so I eventually asked him. I asked him if the NPP wins in 2024 what should Ghana expect from the party. He said Ghana will experience development. I didn’t ask him anything again because there were otters waiting. Nana B later said we had to testify and they all praised him, but I said nothing. When NAPO was going Nana B and the others escorted him,” he stated.
Wontumi’s failure to recognize NAPO’s contributions to the party’s internal activities in the Ashanti region, according to him, got the Chief of Kokoso, Nana Kwaku Duah, furious who later came verbally attacking him after NAPO had left the committee.
“Long after my organizer at Manhyia South came screaming and hitting the table saying if no one will speak I will. He asked me why I didn’t testify for NAPO. I told him to go because I don’t want to retaliate. I told him this is my kingdom, as soon as I said that he said Otumfuor is the only person that has a kingdom. I meant it was my political kingdom,” he explained.
In the heat of the argument,, Wontumi said he had to control the situation by telling Nana Kwaku Duah “NPP is his Kingdom in Ashanti Region and that at that vetting, the issues at stake were purely party issues.”
Wontumi revealed this when he appeared before the Kumasi Traditional Council for allegedly using derogatory remarks against the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and the Asanteman.
Nana Kwaku Duah had claimed that Chairman Wontumi displayed significant disrespect towards the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, during the vetting process leading up to the NPP’s Parliamentary primaries.
In the meantime, Chairman Wontumi has been cleared of allegations of disrespecting the Ashanti stool.
Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, has disclosed that the Chiefs and residents of the Ashanti region are advocating for Energy Minister Mathew Opoku Prempeh to be selected as the running mate to NPP Flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
Mr Assafuah emphasized that the people of the Ashanti region consider the Bawumia-Opoku Prempeh ticket as essential for the NPP to break the eight-year cycle and secure victory in the elections.
Speaking on CitiTV’s Eyewitness News on Wednesday, January 31, he said, “The people of the Ashanti region said they want to see Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as the President of the Republic of Ghana and they also said that the ticket that is going to give us that victory is a ticket that includes Mathew Opoku Prempeh.”
He additionally mentioned that the Chiefs and residents of the Ashanti region are collectively endorsing the Bawumia-NAPO ticket, considering it as the pivotal factor for success in the 2024 elections.
Although Dr. Bawumia has not officially declared his running mate for the December polls, several analysts speculate that Opoku Prempeh and Joseph Osei Owusu are potential candidates for the position.
Additionally, Chief of Staff Frema Osei Opare and Communications Minister Ursula Owusu Ekulful have also been mentioned as possible running mates by some observers
Energy Minister and sitting Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has won the Manhyia South NPP primary held on Saturday 27th January, 2024.
He polled 486 votes representing 88.5% as against 63 votes polled by his contender Helina Pinamang representing 11.5%.
With this emphatic victory Dr. Prempeh seeks his 5th term in Parliament having made his debut appearance on the constituency’s political scene in 2008.
Delegates who spoke to newsmen earlier in the day were confident of Dr. Prempeh’s resounding victory given his sterling leadership as Member of Parliament since 2008.
In a post on Facebook earlier in the day, the Energy Minister expressed that “Manhyia South will once again, rise to the occasion. “
The Council of Zongo Chiefs of Ghana is fervently praying for the inauguration of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as President and Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as Vice President on January 7, 2025.
During a Special Quran Recitation & Prayers for the victory of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2024 general elections, held on January 19, 2024, at Kantudu behind the Kumasi Central Mosque, the Zongo chiefs also invoked blessings for Dr. Bawumia to select the Energy Minister and MP for Manhyia South as his running mate for the upcoming elections.
The chiefs believe that Dr. Prempeh is the ideal partner to work with Dr. Bawumia in advancing Ghana to the next level from 2025. Chief of Frafra and President of the Council of Zongo Chiefs, Alhaji Musah, conveyed their aspirations, stating that they were praying for the duo as they possess the spiritual qualities needed to lead Ghana.
“It is our wish that Dr. Bawumia will be sworn-in as President come 7th January, 2025 with Dr. NAPO as his Vice President. I know that our toil tonight in this recitation will not be in vain” Alhaji Musah said.
He continued “We pray that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s best choice for the running mate will be our own brother, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh. May Allah not let our toil be in vain”.
The Zongo chiefs remain optimistic and have faith that, through their prayers, God will guide Dr. Bawumia to choose Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as his running mate, aligning with Allah’s will for the progress of Ghana.
The Council of Zongo Chiefs is urging Alhaji Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, the NPP flagbearer, to consider selecting Energy Minister and MP for Manhyia South, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, as his running mate for the upcoming 2024 general elections.
During a Special Quran Recitation & Prayers held on Friday, January 19, 2024, at Kantudu behind the Kumasi Central Mosque, following Magrib prayers, the Zongo chiefs expressed their desire for the New Patriotic Party’s victory in the elections.
As part of their prayers, they specifically invoked blessings for Dr. Bawumia and urged him to choose Dr. Prempeh as his running mate, believing that Dr. Prempeh would be the ideal partner to elevate Ghana to the next level from 2025.
Alhaji Musah, Chief of Frafra and President of the Council of Zongo Chiefs, conveyed their collective spiritual support, stating that both Dr. Bawumia and Dr. Prempeh possess the necessary qualities to lead Ghana to its next phase of development.
“It is our wish that Dr. Bawumia will be sworn-in as President come 7th January, 2025 with Dr. NAPO as his Vice President. I know that our toil tonight in this recitation will not be in vain,” Alhaji Musah said
He continued “Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh is our brother and we ask Dr Bawumia who himself is a zongo boy, to select him for them to take Ghana forward” he added
This endorsement and prayer by the Council of Zongo Chiefs, according to political pundits, is a testament to the national appeal of the Energy Minister, who himself, according to history, was named after an Asante Islamic Cleric called Nana Poku hence the name NAPO.
Dr. Prempeh himself is also on record to have been preaching the need for people to be voted for based on competence, a recipe for national cohesion and unity devoid of unnecessary religious sentiments.
Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central , Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has expressed his exclusive support for Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) as the only individual he will endorse for the role of running mate to NPP Flagbearer Alhaji Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the bid to ‘break the 8.’
Addressing delegates of the Bantama Constituency in the Ashanti Region ahead of the January 27 primaries, where parliamentary candidates will be selected for NPP-held constituencies, Agyapong praised NAPO’s positive rapport with the party’s rank and file.
He emphasized the importance of NAPO’s ability to energize party members and attract victory in the 2024 elections.
“If you go to NAPO’s office, you will be marveled at the way he relates with party people. He takes care of party people. If we had 5 of his kind in the party, NPP would have been better off and far ahead of the NDC. Given the current circumstances where many of our members are despondent, selecting NAPO will be the only way to bring back the needed energy for victory in the 2024 elections,” Mr Agyapong said.
Ken Agyapong added, “If anybody else asks me to campaign for him or her to be selected as running mate, I won’t, except Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh.”
This position aligns with the sentiments of grassroots and party members who believe that the running mate should come from the Ashanti Region.
Political analysts also point to NAPO’s grassroots connection and commendable performance as Minister for Education and Energy, suggesting he could help Dr. Bawumia secure support from floating voters.
Rumors circulate that Dr. Bawumia is preparing to submit his running mate’s name to the NPP National Council for approval after the party’s primaries on January 27, 2024.
Meanwhile, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh has filed his nomination for re-election as the NPP Parliamentary Candidate for Manyhia South in Kumasi, marking his fifth bid for the position.
In a Facebook post on December 20, he expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of NPP members in the constituency.
As the new year unfolds, Ghanaians exchange wishes, and government leaders express their hopes for the year ahead.
Energy Minister Matthew Opoku-Prempeh took to Facebook to extend his new year wishes, stating, “A new year begins with a great sense of hope for us, as a people. We will continue to work tirelessly to achieve the vision of his Excellency the president for the energy sector; keeping the lights on and the nation moving. By the grace of God, 2024, I have no doubt, will be kind to us.”
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the 2024 presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who also shared in this optimism, emphasized the government’s commitment to improving the lives of Ghanaians.
Bawumia expressed optimism about the upcoming elections, urging Ghanaians to be proud of their heritage and work together to elevate the country to new heights. He said, “I have absolutely no doubt that we shall once again prove to ourselves and the rest of the world that Ghana has indeed come of age.”
Former President John Mahama, in his New Year message, thanked the Almighty for guiding the people through 2023 and called on Ghanaians to be thankful for God’s protection. He expressed confidence in building a prosperous and just Ghana, saying, “Together we shall build the Ghana we want, a prosperous and just Ghana filled with opportunities for all.”
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo extended his wishes for a “Happy and Prosperous 2024” and urged Ghanaians to be optimistic about the future. He emphasized the need for collective effort to achieve the nation’s development aspirations, stating, “Even though our nation is not yet completely out of the woods, I am confident that, with hard work and determination, Ghana will make it, and, collectively, we will secure our futures.” The President affirmed his commitment to the mandate given by the people and pledged to use his remaining time in office to contribute to creating a free and prosperous nation of opportunities.
During a seminar organized by the University of Ghana Student Representative Council (SRC) with the theme “Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders, the Big Conversation,” Opoku Prempeh, who currently serves as the Energy Minister, expressed his perplexity over the school’s inclusion of “Legon” in its name.
Opoku Prempeh argued that as Presec is situated in the Madina Atomic enclave, he finds it puzzling why the school associates itself with “Legon.”
Despite Presec’s consistent victories in the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), he emphasized that this does not automatically designate the school as the best in the country. Opoku Prempeh contended that the title of the best school belongs to Prempeh College in Kumasi, his alma mater.
In jest, he said, “Presec is located in the Madina constituency; how is it then called Presec Legon? Identity crisis. They always rush and become second; that is why they’re called ‘Pre-sec’, you rush to become second.”
He remarked in Twi, “But what I am trying to say is that they might win and not be number one; they might win and not be the best because the circumstances of the win might be different.
“Look, the newly appointed Chief Justice went to Wesley Girls, and the biggest girls’ school is Mfantsiman, not very far away from Wesley Girls. How many times has Wesley Girls won the Science and Maths Quiz?
“So, it is not always the ones who win that are the best, because maybe the number of students Wesley Girls has or takes in a year and the output, they produce…” he added.
Kofi Abrefa Afena, the press aide to Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has contested assertions made by lawyer Isaac Minta Larbi concerning purported disagreements over Ghana’s lithium contract.
Mr Afena has unequivocally stated that the jurisdiction for the lithium agreement falls under the purview of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, not the Energy Ministry.
In addressing the misalignment, Mr Afena highlighted that on Thursday, December 7, 2023, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources addressed the press specifically regarding the lithium contract.
He underscored that Dr. Prempeh, as the Energy Minister, has refrained from making any comments on this matter.
Mr Afena pinpointed the source of the misunderstanding to a misinterpretation of ministerial and agency alignment, urging Mr. Minta Larbi to promptly rectify the article for accuracy.
This clarification comes after Mr. Afena spoke in an interview over the weekend.
Moreover, he emphasized that the inclusion of the Minerals Commission CEO in Larbi’s article should serve as a clear indication that the issue is entirely unrelated to the Energy Ministry.
This comprehensive clarification aims to set the record straight and dispel any misconceptions regarding Dr. Prempeh’s involvement in the lithium contract disagreements.
Renowned entertainment pundit and politician Kwame Obeng Asare, popularly known as A Plus, has responded to a viral image of Energy MinisterDr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh and a woman believed to be his wife at an event reported to be their wedding ceremony.
A Plus clarified that the circulated picture on social media, showing Dr. Opoku Matthew Opoku Prempeh in his Kente cloth alongside a lady presumed to be married to the minister, is not recent.
Social media users have been sharing their opinions on the timing of the wedding, with some suggesting that his aspirations for the running mate position in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) influenced his decision to marry at this juncture.
“Old picture!! Cut the crap!”, A Plus wrote on his Facebook page in reaction to a post that had the picture of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh with a lady standing before a pastor during the ceremony.
NAPO and partner
Background
On November 9, 2023, images of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s private wedding ceremony with his undisclosed partner circulated widely.
The Minister, also known as ‘NAPO’ and a lawmaker for Manhyia North, was captured with eyes closed in a prayerful manner clothed in traditional wedding apparel.
The event was officiated by Dr. Michael Boadi Nyamekye, the General Overseer of The Maker’s House Chapel.
NAPO and his wife wore kente cloth, symbolising their union, as they solemnly recited their vows. While specific details about the ceremony remain limited, it is confirmed that the minister is now officially married.
The Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has emphasized that competence, not religion, should be the primary criterion for choosing a candidate in an election.
He asserted that a candidate’s ability to bring prosperity to the people should be the determining factor in an election.
Speaking to artisans and delegates of the NPP in the Manhyia South constituency in Manhyia on Friday, October 27, 2023, Dr. Prempeh highlighted Ghana’s long history of peaceful coexistence among all religions.
He expressed concern over the potential dangers of introducing religious factors into elections, whether at the party’s internal level or on a national scale.
Dr. Prempeh shared a personal example, stating that he was named after a Muslim, and the Regional Chief Imam of the Ashanti Region is his brother.
“I, Matthew Opoku Prempeh, was named after a Muslim, and the Regional Chief Imam of the Ashanti Region is my brother. This should tell you that in my family, some are Christians and some are Muslims. This situation also exists in many families. It is therefore unacceptable to create partitions and divisions on religious lines.
“The unfortunate global happenings have made governments across the world unpopular, however, the record will show that we have performed better even under these circumstances,” he said.
He explained that in many families, a diversity of religions exists, making it unacceptable to create divisions along religious lines.
The Manhyia South lawmaker encouraged NPP members to take pride in the government’s achievements over the past seven years and to actively support the party.
He acknowledged that the global challenges have made governments around the world less popular, but he also stressed that the NPP has demonstrated effective governance even under these circumstances.
Dr. Prempeh argued that the NPP has managed the economy more effectively than the John Mahama-led NDC and expressed confidence in the NPP’s prospects for success in the December 2024 elections.
He urged the delegates of Manhyia South to exercise their democratic rights peacefully on November 4, 2023, emphasizing that party unity is crucial for a decisive NPP victory in 2024.
The Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, is set to be awarded as the “most dynamic Minister” in the Akufo-Addo Administration.
The award, presented by the Education and Management Training Foundation (EDMAT Foundation) on November 4, 2023, acknowledges his exceptional performance and leadership in the two ministries he has overseen in the current government.
The Executive Director of the EDMAT Foundation, Dr. Robert Okyne, signed a statement recognizing Dr. Prempeh’s outstanding contributions, particularly in leading the implementation of the Free Senior High School Policy.
The foundation commended his transformative impact on the education sector and the revitalization of education policies.
The statement emphasized Dr. Prempeh’s current role as Energy Minister, highlighting the successful achievements attributed to him.
The foundation expressed confidence that both the President and Ghanaians view him as the most dynamic Minister, describing him as a “bulldozer and Mender.”
Earlier in July, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh received an honorary Doctor of Educational Leadership Degree from the University of Cape Coast for his exceptional performance as Minister of Education.
The University of Education, Winneba (UEW) and the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) had previously conferred similar honors.
In addition to these academic recognitions, he was named the Best Minister in 2019 and 2022 and received honors from the Civil Service for his outstanding leadership.
Former Minister of Education and the current Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has been praised for his exceptional leadership and long-lasting impact on the country’s development efforts by Lawrence Kwesi Botchway Jr., a member of the NPP’s communications team.
More specifically, he has been praised for playing a crucial part in saving the nation from a power catastrophe. He referred to Dr. Opoku Prempeh as the “architect of Ghana’s energy success” in an interview.
“His impressive accomplishments in the energy sector have left an indelible mark on the nation’s history in terms of propelling the nation towards a brighter and more sustainable economy.”
“We must laud the Minister’s dedication and effectiveness in keeping the lights on and the nation running. NAPO’s timely and effective response showcased his mastery of the energy landscape, ensuring uninterrupted power supply till now and even during the challenging COVID-19 epoch. Unlike the past era of ‘dumsor’, Ghana experienced stability and reliability in its power infrastructure, a testament to Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s strategic leadership in the energy sector,” he stated
Impactful recognition
Highlighting the remarkable strides achieved in the realm of education, he underscored the transformative influence of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy championed by Dr. Opoku Prempeh and President Akufo-Addo.
Backing his assertion with pertinent data, he pointed out that student enrollment had surged from a modest 6,000 students in 2016 to an astonishing 1.2 million students today. He highlighted that this remarkable expansion isn’t solely a result of political maneuvering but stands as a testament to President Akufo-Addo’s visionary leadership.
In light of this, he emphasized the profound impact of the Free SHS policy in narrowing the divide between privileged and underprivileged students. He commended President Akufo-Addo’s forward-looking leadership in democratizing education, ensuring access for all, regardless of their socio-economic backgrounds.
“President Akufo-Addo’s legacy is a generational gift to Ghana. The once insurmountable financial barriers that restricted educational opportunities have been eliminated by the Free SHS policy. Regardless of their economic background, both rich and poor students now sit side by side in institutions like Adisadel College, receiving education that was once a privilege of the few,” he noted.
The Ghanaian Energy Minister, Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, is set to receive yet another honorary Doctorate Degree from the esteemed University of Cape Coast (UCC).
This will mark the third such honor bestowed upon him in just two years, a testament to his outstanding contributions to the nation.
Affectionately known as ‘Napo’ in political circles, the hardworking minister has previously been awarded two Honorary Doctorate Degrees from other prestigious universities before this latest recognition by UCC.
The special ceremony, scheduled for Saturday, July 29, 2023, will be a momentous occasion where the Minister of Energy, along with other dignitaries, will be celebrated for their remarkable achievements.
Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh has left an indelible mark on Ghana’s development, particularly in his roles within the Energy and Education Ministries over the last six years.
As the Education Minister, he played a pivotal role in introducing the government’s flagship policy, the free Senior High School (SHS) program, which has had a significant impact on the country’s educational landscape.
His dedication and positive contributions to the country’s transformation have earned him numerous accolades, including recognition from international organizations like the United Nations (UN).
Notably, Dr. Prempeh has been instrumental in energizing the Ministry of Energy, bringing vitality to its operations under his leadership.
Apart from his academic honors, Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh has received recognition from various reputable international organizations, a testament to his exemplary work and dedication to public service.
On the same day, the University of Cape Coast will also honor other distinguished personalities, including Ehunabobrim Prah Agyensaim VI, Dr. K.K Sarpong, Prof. Harold Stwart Amonoo-Koufi, Dr. Deborah Rose, Dr. Yaw Adu-Agyei Gyamfi, and Prof. Daniel A. Wubah.
It promises to be a day of celebration and recognition of exceptional achievements in various fields.
In just two years, he has been bestowed with three Honorary Doctorate Degrees from top institutions.
The University of Cape Coast (UCC), a leading university in West Africa, is the latest to honor Napo with an Honorary Doctorate Degree.
A Special Congregation is scheduled for July 29, 2023, where the Minister of Energy and other esteemed individuals will be recognized.
This marks the third Honorary Doctorate Degree that Napo, also serving as the MP for Manhyia South, has received within a span of two years.
In May 2021, the University of Education, Winneba, acknowledged his unique and exemplary contributions with an Honorary Doctorate Degree.
Subsequently, in July 2021, the University of Professional Studies (UPS) in Accra also conferred an Honorary Doctorate Degree upon him.
Napo has played significant roles to help accelerate the effective development of the country. No wonder he has been a recipient of many enviable awards.
His positive contributions to the transformation of the country has especially been felt in the Energy and Education Ministries during the last six years.
During his tenure as the Education Minister, Napo worked tirelessly to introduce the NPP government’s flagship policy, the free Senior High School (SHS).
Napo, who is noted for his hard work, has written his name in the letters of gold at the Energy Ministry as he has worked to make the ministry vibrant, so far.
Aside theHonorary Doctorate Degrees, Napo has also been honoured by some reputable international organizations, including the United Nations (UN).
Meanwhile, the UCC would on Saturday, July 29, 2023, also honour other distinguished people such as Ehunabobrim Prah Agyensaim VI and Dr. K.K Sarpong.
Also to be honoured by the UCC are Prof. Harold Stwart Amonoo-Koufi, Dr. Deborah Rose, Dr. Yaw Adu-Agyei Gyamfi and Prof. Daniel A. Wubah.
The private newspaper Daily Guide, owned by the former National Chairman of theNew Patriotic Party(NPP) and current Board Chairman of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation, has issued a retraction for a story titled “NAPO Celebrates Birthday in Monaco.”
The paper has thus proceeded to apologize to Energy Minister and MP for Manhyia South, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh for same.
Lawyer for the Minister, Nana Agyei Baffour in a letter dated 1st June 2023 demanded an apology and retraction of the false allegations made against the Minister failure for which legal remedies were going to be instituted against the media house.
This was after spokesperson for the Minister had also in a statement debunked the story, describing it as unintelligent and a complete fabrication.
Daily Guide in a publication on page 12 of its June 2, 2023 edition, retracted and apologized to the Minister.
“Upon a careful examination, we discovered that our initial full report contained factual inaccuracies,” the statement said.
It also said, “We appreciate the need for accuracy and as such extend our apologies for the earlier misreport”.
“We hereby retract the story and apologize for any inconvenience the publication might have caused,” it concluded.
Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has sarcastically told Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, affectionately called NAPO, that he is challenging him in old age.
In a video in commemoration of the minister’s 55th birthday today, May 23, 2023, he wondered why the Manhyia South lawmaker is racing so fast in age.
“NAPO, I hear tomorrow is your birthday. You are racing very fast…do you want to be an old man like me? If you were born in 1968, if you do the calculations, you are now 54 or 55 years of age. Whatever it is, many happy returns. I have consistently advised you and wish to urge you to take things slowly. God Bless you,” he said.
Happy Birthday Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh….simply called "Napo".
NAPO is a trained medical doctor and a leading member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) who served as a member of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of the United Kingdom from 1999 to 2003.
He studied Human Biology and Medicine at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, later continuing post-graduate studies at the Netherlands Institute of Health Sciences and the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.
He is the current Member of Parliament for Manhyia South Constituency in the Ashanti Region of Ghana and served as a Minister of Education but is currently the Minister for Energy.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh was born on May 23, 1968, at Pakyi Number 2 in the Ashanti Region.
Prior to parliament, Prempeh served as CEO of Keyedmap Security Services Limited from 2004 to 2009.
Since meeting Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in 2012, Energy Minister, Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh has said that his ultimate goal has been to see that Bawumia is elected President of Ghana.
NAPO as known in politics, believes that with where Ghana currently is, the country needs an intelligent man like Bawumia to propel the country to a higher height.
Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh made this known while speaking on Kumasi-based Pure FM monitored by MyNewsGh.com.
“All my work I’ve done and everything I’ve represented since 2012 is to ensure that Dr. Bawumia becomes President of Ghana one day. I’ve never for a second dreamt of being his running mate. That is not why I’m supporting Dr. Bawumia’s work. I have the conviction and confidence that where Ghana is at the moment, we need someone like Dr. Bawumia to take Ghana forward.” He revealed
He, however, shot down claims that he wants to become the running mate of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
According to him, the Vice President has not even declared his intention to contest for the position so it’s worrying that people think he is lobbying to become his running mate.
“The man has not even declared his intentions to become the Flagbearer and subsequently President of this country. We just came to accompany him to Otumfuo’s Akwasidae. I was abroad some weeks ago working for the government when I heard someone insulting me and saying I want to become the Vice President. We have not even elected our flagbearer so how does someone even lobby to become Vice President?
People have been talking and saying things to paint others black and that is worrying. You don’t even get where they get their information from to link me to be lobbying to become the Bawumia’s running mate.”He bemoaned
The Energy Minister noted that people have started attacks just because of an internal contest but was quick to add that he is a man who does not subscribe to politics of insults.
“I don’t subscribe to the strategy of insulting your opponent and later going and begging so we move on. I will never forget if you insult me,” he said.
The Energy Ministry, has disclosed its intentions to supply over 2,000 electricity meters to traders at Kejetia Market.
According to the Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (Napo) the days of having just one meter for the entire market are over.
The Minister wondered why traders could not enjoy separate meters to reduce the costs of paying high electricity bills at the facility.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh gave the assurance while addressing traders when he visited the facility to commensurate with traders that have lost their wares and shops in last Thursday’s fire which was started by someone cooking at the place.
“As the Minister of Energy, I have just heard the facility had only one meter. We will bring many meters, we have brought 2,000 meters, and we will continue to bring meters till all shops have their own individual meters.
“Please, I must be frank with you too, all those that have put unapproved structures in the market will be removed from here, we will not sit unconcerned after fixing this place for such things to reoccur, that we will not accept, we are begging all.
“With these obstacles in the market, how will any fire tender come into the market, or will any emergency situation be dealt with,” he questioned.
Energy Minister Dr Mathew Opoku Prempeh did not signed any contract with GENSER as being reported by some news outlet the The Independent Ghana can confirm.
Some workers of Ghana Gas Company Limited have called on the President of Ghana to overturn a contract purportedly signed by the Energy Minister.
The Ministry has even go ahead to denied the Minister’s involvement in any contract with GENSER.
According to the statement, the only contract between GENSER and GNGC was signed by the Chief Executive of GNGC Dr Ben Asante after which the Minister was duly informed.
The statement is shocked that the Minister in Charge of Energy is therefore being accused for signing a contract when the Chief Executive Officer was the one who signed the contract.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, alias NAPO, has restated why the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will forever remain the preferred party in the Ashanti Region.
He holds that it is often during the NPP’s era that the region known to be its electoral world bank gets needed development.
NAPO, while speaking at the flagging-off ceremony for work to begin on the Suame Interchange stressed that Asanteman had to be forever grateful to the party for its contributions to development.
“When Nana Addo speaks, people take him on, I want to tell all of you gathered here that if you need a government that will come and help Asanteman, it is the NPP.
“If God had allowed Nana Addo to succeed President Kufuor, Kumasi would have been known as the golden city. When that did not happen, we became known as borla city, there was refuse all over the place since Nana Addo came, have you seen the refuse?
“We shouldn’t show ingratitude, Asantes are grateful, let us not be ungrateful. Asante has good memories…,” he stated before adding: “it is based on this that we will continue to vote for the NPP till God descends from the heavens.
“I can say that anyone here who votes for the NDC does not mean well for Asanteman,” he added in a video clip sighted by GhanaWeb.
President John Agyekum Kufuor completed his second term in office in 2008 having taken office in 2000 from the late Jerry John Rawlings.
The election to replace Kufuor was between Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the late John Evans Atta-Mills. The latter contesting for the third consecutive time beat Akufo-Addo in a runoff vote.
Imagine what’d happen if this came from any NDC member of parliament from the Volta Region. Just imagine???? pic.twitter.com/kcaZDECInV
— General Marcus! (@marcusadampah) October 20, 2022
Energy Minister and Member of Parliament for the Manhyia North Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh has accused media practitioners in the Ashanti Region of taking money from some people to denigrate the governing NPP in the region.
The MP who was not specific with which media persons said, “Journalists have taken money and they sit on radio to insult the government. Their agenda is mainly to make the NPP look bad in the area but the truth is that the government is doing well for Asanteman.”
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony of the Suame Interchange on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, Dr. Prempeh also known as NAPO touted the achievements of the governing NPP in the Ashanti Region. According to him, the party is the only one that has the development of the region at heart and numerous projects are ongoing in the region curtsy the governing NPP.
He urged the residents in the region to be thankful to the government saying, ” even God who created us requests for thanks from us anytime he does something good for us hence we the people in the area must be thankful to the Nana Addo government for what he continues to do for us”.
He took a swipe at individuals who use the absence of the Suame Interchange to accuse the government of not developing Asanteman by saying, “Suame Interchange is not Asanteman, other roads and infrastructure are being developed in the region”.
The Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has entreated Ghanaians to exercise patience as government is investing financial resources towards the upgrading of the power operating system in the country.
That, he said, would ensure efficient and reliable power supply to both domestic and commercial power consumers to improve their businesses.
Dr Opoku Prempeh gave the assurance when he led a delegation, comprising officials from the Millennium Development Authority, Electricity Company of Ghana, and Volta River Authority, to inspect the Kasoa Bulk Supply Point, on Tuesday.
The country in recent months have witnessed frequent power cuts, especially parts of the national capital, Accra, resulting in public outcry.
A section of the public has accused government of not telling Ghanaians the truth about the power situation, and suspected that government has no money to buy fuel for the power plants.
It is in this light that the Energy Minister, over the past two weeks, had been touring some power projects being undertaken by government to ending the power outages.
The Kasoa BSP is 435 MVA, which is about 50 per cent complete, and expected to improve power supply to Winneba, Mallam and parts the Greater Accra and Central regions.
The project is being implemented by the Millennium Development Authority (MiDA), under the Ghana Power Compact Two and falls under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), which the US government provided US$308 million to the government of Ghana, to improve its energy needs and curb power transmission losses.
Mr Matin Esson Benjamin, the Chief Executive Officer of MiDA said the Kasoa BSP was being constructed by Semens Engineering at a cost of US$50 million and expected to be completed in August, this year.
He said the construction of the Kasoa BSP was timely, as it would improve power supply to residents of Mallam, Kasoa, Winneba among others and would benefit about 300, 000 residents in parts of the Greater Accra and Central regions.
Parliament will not act as a rubber stamp in the processes leading to the passage of the Public Universities Bill. This is according to the Minister for Education, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh.
The Bill entered the consideration stage after its second reading in Parliament on Tuesday, December 15, 2020, where the Minority threatened to withdraw their support if their request for further consultation is ignored.
However, speaking to Citi News, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh allayed fears of stakeholders.
“The ranking member of the Committee attested to the fact that the Universities were consulted and it is their proposal that they brought in that led to a large number of amendment. Of course, when bills are brought, Parliament is not a rubber stamp.
“Parliament invites stakeholder memorandum and there were 38 memoranda that were brought so Parliament will listen and if there are amendments that is the word of Parliament. I do not remember a single bill that came and went back the same.â€
Parliament on Tuesday, December 15, 2020, approved the Public University Bill at the second reading stage.
The Minority in Parliament, during the debate, expressed conditional support for the other processes to get the Bill passed.
It was also concerned with consultation from groups that wrote to it during the period of recess by the House.
What did the Education Committee of Parliament say?
The Education Committee in presenting its recommendations on the bill to the House noted that the Bill is important for the “governance architecture of public universities.â€
It further said the Bill seeks to present an “equitable opportunity for all qualified applicants†in the country.
“The Bill provides important reforms for improvement in the governance architecture of public universities. The Bill further improves the admission process and create equal and equitable opportunity for all qualified applicants to access higher education, irrespective of their economic circumstances.â€
“In particular, the standardisation of key governance structures across all public universities will inject more efficiency and effectiveness in the administration of public universities.â€
Minister of Education, Dr Mathew Opoku Prempeh says the current leadership at the Electoral Commission (EC) has done far better than their predecessors.
On Monday, December 7, the lawmaker for Manhyia South constituency cast his vote in the constituency in the ongoing presidential and parliamentary elections.
Speaking to TV3 after exercising his franchise, he stated that the Commission had done commendable work.
“I can tell you that making a register available in its full report for people to cross-check and make sure that people are there has never happened in the history of the country. The parties have been given a full rendition of the register with pictures and dresses and everything.
“The voter register in this country has been published fully for the public so yes I do support that they have done well,†he said.
The Electoral Commission published the Voters register weeks before the election.
That action by the Electoral Commission was met with some level of scrutiny as the terms of publishing the register was questioned.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Minister of Education, has cautioned the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) members and supporters to be vigilant during the December 7 elections.
According to him, he has picked intelligence that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has hired some people to disrupt the elections by stealing ballot boxes from the polling stations.
He called on the NPP not to go home after casting their ballots but stay at the polling stations to check miscreants.
Ghanaians will be going to the polls on Monday, December 7, 2020 to elect a President for Ghana.
Twelve political parties are contesting the elections but it is largely believed that the contest is between the two biggest parties, the ruling New Patriotic Party(NPP) and largest opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“NPP must be vigilant especially in polling stations that the NPP wins massively because some of our opponents have spurred some people to grab the ballot box and cause chaos for the votes to minimize. So, they should be vigilant not to go home after casting their votes but rather gather ourselves and make a bonfire, and go round it so that we show any person who attempts to steal the ballot box that we’re still around,” Matthew Opoku-Prempeh said in an interview on Peace FM’s “Kokrokoo” programme.
As part of efforts to improve the education sector in the country, the Ministry of Education has revealed it has embarked on 1,011 infrastructural project initiatives in Senior High Schools (SHS) across the country since 2017.
According to the Education Minister, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, 492 of the projects had been completed, with the rest at various stages of completion.
He adds that some of these projects which were initiated by the government were by Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund).
The minister said 135 were initiated by the World Bank-funded Secondary Education Infrastructure Project (SEIP), out of which 107 had been completed, while the remaining 33 were by the Kuwaiti Fund, of which three had been completed. Daily guide reported
He listed the completed projects to include three-, six-, eight-, 12- and 18-unit classroom blocks, amounting to the creation of 84,600 new seats arising out of 222 new classroom blocks.
“Other projects include washroom facilities, rehabilitation works and structures such as assembly halls and laboratories,†NAPO said.
NAPO also announced that beginning 2020/21 academic year, no student would be required to pay utility bills.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the Minister of Education, on Wednesday said the government has cleared all legacy arrears left by the previous administration to ensure that there was continuity of service delivery in the educational system.
He said the debts, which were huge on key supplies for educational service delivery, had an outstanding bill of approximately GH¢9 million on Capitation Grant, GH¢4 million on Feeding Grant for Special Schools, GH¢14 million on exercise books to basic schools, and GH¢4 million on the supply of school uniforms among others.
Dr Prempeh, who is also the Member of Parliament for the Manhyia constituency, said this while delivering a comprehensive statement to Parliament on education reforms and teacher education since the New Patriotic Party (NPP) assumed office.
“Moreover, there were delays in the disbursement of capitation and feeding grants for Special Schools affecting the effective operation of the schools. Within the period, Government has cleared all the arrears and ensured the timely release of capitation and feeding grants for Special Schools,†he said.
The Minister mentioned other initiatives and reforms rolled out by the NPP government in the education sector, including training of teachers, staff promotion, the teacher licensure regime, infrastructure investments, a legal and regulatory framework, and improvements in the Technical, Vocational Education & Training (TVET) subsector.
Minister of Education Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh has indicated that as part of government measures to improve on the quality of basic education in the country, the number of trained teachers supplied to the schools have been increased.
The percentage of trained teachers, he added, has also been improved to 88 per cent at the Primary level.
He further said that since the current government took office in January 2017, it has employed a total of 66,357 teaching and non-teaching staff in the pre-tertiary sector as of the end of 2019.
Touting the achievements of the Akufo-Addo administration in the educational sector on Tuesday, August 11, Dr Opoku Prempeh said: “To improve the quality of education, we have had to increase the supply of trained teachers to our basic schools.
“Within the period, the pupil to trained teacher ratio has improved to 1:37 at the Kindergarten level and 1:33 at the Primary level in 2019. The percentage of trained teachers has also improved to 88 percent at the Primary level,†he noted.
He added: “Further, financial clearance has been obtained to recruit an additional 27,367 teaching and non-staff, comprising 16,500 newly qualified teachers, 6,500 graduate teachers, 3,232 replacement staff and 1,135 non-teaching staff.
“This brings the total to a staggering 93, 724 employed by the end of this year for pre-tertiary. At the tertiary level, we have since 2017 recruited a total of 6,176 staff,†he added.
Regarding the Free Senior High School programme, he said: “To date, over 1.2 million students have benefited from the Free SHS programme, which has expanded access to secondary education and enabled an extra 400,000 students to enroll in Senior High School.â€
“…we recognize that access alone is not adequate in guaranteeing the quality of education we desire. For this reason, government is committed to ensuring quality and relevant education that will produce confident, skilled and global citizens who are ready and able to compete with their counterparts anywhere in the world.â€
Education Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh after being discharged from the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) has recounted his near-death COVID-19 experience.
The minister, widely known as NAPO who felt unwell after his acclamation in the Ashanti regional NPP Parliamentary Primaries, decided to check himself in for other tests including a second COVID-19 test.
He had earlier tested negative after a voluntary test but was detained at the facility awaiting a second test result which came out positive.
Recounting his experience from the centre, he said the Grace of God saw him through his recovery process.
“But for God, I would not be alive. I thought I was going to die due to my condition when I was admitted, but after I was stabilized, I knew the worst was over,†he said on Accra-based radio Peace FM.
He urged Ghanaians, especially those defying the Covid-19 safety protocols, to tread cautiously, adding the health facilities were running out of space.
“We are at a critical point now; UGMC and Korle Bu are currently full. How many beds are available there? I never visited the ICU but others went to ICU and never returned.
“We should therefore not be indifferent about the situation because it has not affected any of our relatives,†he cautioned.
Hon Samuel Nartey George, Member of Parliament (MP) for the Ningo-Prampram Constituency in the Greater Accra Region, has sent a solidarity message to Education Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh and Minister of Regional Reorganization and Development, Mr. Daniel Kweku Botwe.
This was after the two Ministers were reported to be on admission at the University of Ghana (UG) Medical Centre in the capital, Accra.
According to sources available to Joy News, Daniel Kweku Botwe and Dr Mathew Opoku Prempeh are currently being held at the ‘Red Zone’, a unit where only persons with COVID-19 positive cases are kept.
The sources could not tell whether they have tested positive for Covid-19 but reiterated that the two gentlemen are on admission where only persons with full Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) can go.
Mr Botwe is said to have reported at the Hospital last Saturday, but there are conflicting reports about when Mr Opoku Prempeh went there.
Some sources said he went there on Sunday to self-isolate after being suspected of contracting the virus, while others say he reported on Monday.
The Education Minister is said to have gone back to the Centre after taking a voluntary test at the same facility and decided to self-isolate.
However, in a post on Facebook to strengthen the officeholders, the opposition MP, Sam George, as he is affectionately called, said, he was with them in prayers.
“My thoughts and prayers are with my senior colleagues”, he wrote.
Sam Goerge also touched on the reality of the coronavirus, thereby cautioning Ghanaians to stay safe.
“COVID-19 is real guys. Let’s #staysafe please”, he cautioned.
The Ministry of Education has advised parents and guardians to give children a conducive environment for learning at home by not assigning them to overwhelming house chores that will stifle their ability to continue with their studies.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Education on April 27, 2020, and signed by Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the Minister for Education, parents and guardians are encouraged to support their wards as they learn from home.
All basic, high schools, and tertiary institutions have been closed down temporarily by the government as part of the directives to contain the spread of the deadly Coronavirus.
“Create a safe environment for children to learn and thrive and avoid overburdening them with chores … we are implementing various measures to ensure that children continue to learn while at home, and we hope that you can render them your utmost support while maintaining a safe environment for them to thrive,†parts of the statement read.
The Ministry has also unveiled that new innovations has been introduced to the online/electronic learning system to give students better learning experience.
“We have introduced a number of platforms, with more in development to assist children in learning … Additionally, the Ghana Learning TV is now available on free to air TV as well as on DStv channel 315, GOtv channel 150 and StarTimes channel 312,†the statement read.
