A Deputy Communication Officer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Eastern Region has criticized Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman’s tenure as Minister of Education, comparing it unfavorably to that of Dr. Opoku Prempeh.
Abdul El Samed, speaking with Trust FM’s Omanba Kojo Boafo, discussed the qualifications of both Professor Opoku Agyeman and Dr. Opoku Prempeh as running mates to Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP and John Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
According to Mr. Samed, both Dr. Opoku Prempeh and Professor Opoku Agyeman held the position of Minister of Education for four years, and their records are remembered distinctly. He highlighted that educational standards declined significantly during their respective tenures. He specifically mentioned the cancellation of teacher trainee allowances, unpaid allowances for students with disabilities, and the financial burden left by Professor Opoku Agyeman concerning the NDC’s attempt to implement the free Senior High School policy during the Mahama administration from 2013 to 2016.
Mr. Samed contrasted this with Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s achievements, noting his ability to quantify improvements such as increased student enrollment in various Senior High Schools across the country and substantial infrastructural development in schools ranging from basic to tertiary levels.
The discussion arose in the context of recent developments where Alhaji Dr. Bawumia nominated the Minister of Energy as his preferred running mate, sparking public debate comparing the past records of potential running mates, particularly their performances as former education ministers.