Ghana strengthens cultural education as CREP calls for deeper national commitment

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced the theme for the 2025/2026 Basic School Festival of Creative Arts and Culture as “Culture Education: Nurturing and Preserving Ghanaian Values,” reaffirming the country’s commitment to safeguarding its cultural heritage through formal education.

The initiative, which will involve pupils from across the country, is expected to culminate in a national festival after the third term vacation. Activities will include poetry recital, drum language, dance, drama, choral music, storytelling and visual arts, all aimed at promoting creativity, identity and cultural awareness among young learners.

Education experts say the move comes at a critical moment, as globalisation, digital media and shifting social values continue to influence the attitudes and behaviour of young people. They argue that culture-based education remains one of the most effective tools for nurturing responsible citizenship and strengthening national unity.

The Centre for Research and Educational Policy (CREP) has described the initiative as a timely and strategic response to the growing need for value-based education in Ghana. According to CREP, culture is not merely a reflection of the past but a living framework that shapes behaviour, ethics and social responsibility.

“Culture education must be treated as a national priority, not an occasional activity,” CREP noted. “When learners understand their identity, history and values, they become more grounded, disciplined and socially responsible citizens. This is essential for sustainable national development.”

CREP further emphasised that the festival should not be viewed as a ceremonial event but as an integral part of the learning process. The organisation called for deliberate investment in teacher preparation, learning materials and community participation to ensure the long-term success of the programme.

Education analysts have also stressed that cultural education helps bridge generational gaps and strengthens social cohesion. By exposing learners to indigenous knowledge systems, creative expression and traditional values, schools can play a central role in preserving Ghana’s cultural identity amid rapid social change.

While commending the Ghana Education Service for its leadership, CREP urged all stakeholders, including school authorities, parents, traditional leaders and local communities, to actively support the initiative. According to the organisation, meaningful cultural education requires collective responsibility and sustained commitment.

As preparations begin across the country, observers say the success of the 2025 festival will depend not only on performance but on purpose. When culture is taught with intention and respect, it becomes a powerful tool for shaping minds, strengthening identity and securing the nation’s future.