The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has revealed that approximately 5,000 schools across Ghana are operating without officially approved infrastructure.

The government has acknowledged a significant infrastructure deficit in the education sector, revealing that approximately 5,000 schools across the country still operate under trees due to inadequate classroom facilities. Speaking at a public forum on education in Accra on Monday, February 17, 2025, the Tamale South legislator emphasized the urgent need to bridge the infrastructure gap to create a conducive learning environment for students. He assured the public that the upcoming 2025 budget, which is yet to be presented, will make substantial allocations to the education sector to address these pressing challenges.

According to him, the government is committed to making massive investments in education infrastructure, and the first phase of this initiative will be unveiled in the 2025 budget statement. He reiterated that efforts will be made to close the infrastructure gaps that have persisted over the years, ensuring that students and teachers across the country have access to well-equipped and safe learning environments.

The issue of schools under trees has been a long-standing challenge that several governments have attempted to address over the years. The term “schools under trees” refers to basic educational institutions that lack approved infrastructure, forcing pupils and teachers to conduct lessons in open spaces, particularly under tree sheds. This situation has largely been attributed to a shortage of formal school buildings, limited access to educational facilities, and an underfunded education system in certain regions. In many instances, makeshift classroom structures have deteriorated to the point of being unusable, compelling school authorities to hold lessons in open spaces where students are exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Over the years, the absence of proper classroom facilities has had a negative impact on the quality of education, as students struggle to concentrate in these unfavorable conditions. The lack of walls, roofs, and basic furniture affects both teaching and learning, making it difficult for educators to effectively deliver lessons. Furthermore, during the rainy season, academic activities are often disrupted, further widening the learning gap for students in affected communities.

To address these persistent challenges, the government has rolled out various initiatives aimed at improving school infrastructure and access to quality education. Among these initiatives is the establishment of a National Education Reform Committee, which has been tasked with collecting public recommendations on how to improve the education sector. The committee is expected to assess existing challenges and propose innovative solutions to enhance the education system.

Additionally, President Mahama has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making education a top priority. He has pledged to work towards ensuring that education in Ghana is not only accessible and affordable but also of high quality. His government aims to implement policies that will provide students with the resources and infrastructure necessary to thrive academically.

As the country awaits the presentation of the 2025 budget, education stakeholders remain hopeful that the proposed investments will bring about meaningful change. The expectation is that the government’s commitment to addressing the infrastructure deficit will translate into concrete actions, ultimately improving the learning environment for thousands of students across the nation.