The Ministry of Education recently held a significant stakeholder engagement event in the Cape Coast Metropolis, aimed at promoting the Operation Double Science Enrolment initiative.

The gathering brought together students from various Junior High Schools (JHS), their parents, head teachers, and other key educational stakeholders. The event sought to sensitise participants about the benefits and opportunities associated with pursuing science-related courses.

The event commenced with the Regional Director of Education, outlining the strategic vision behind the initiative. Emphasising the growing gap between developing and developed nations, he underscored the need for robust science education as a vehicle for national development.

“Our objective with Operation Double Science Enrolment is to bridge the educational divide by transforming teaching and learning environments. We aim to make science accessible and engaging for all students,” he stated.

Key strategies highlighted included awareness campaigns through media, development of science infrastructure with 300 new laboratories, and the introduction of virtual laboratories by the Centre for National Distance Learning and Open Schooling (CENDLOS). These measures are expected to elevate the science enrolment rate from the current 12% to 25%.

The Headmistress of Wesley Girls’ Senior High School, the host of the event, welcomed participants and reiterated her institution’s dedication to fostering a culture of scientific inquiry. She praised the initiative for aligning with the school's long-standing tradition of academic excellence.

She further called on educators, parents, and students to embrace the initiative and work collaboratively to break down barriers to science education, thereby broadening students' career prospects in STEM fields.

The National Coordinator of Science Education also addressed the gathering, highlighting the critical need to increase science enrolment to meet modern workforce demands. He pointed out that the initiative aimed not only to increase enrolment but also to demystify science education.

“Our current science enrolment rates must improve to reflect the demands of the 21st-century job market. This initiative uses innovative approaches, such as national media campaigns and enhanced infrastructure, to make science education accessible and compelling for all students,” he emphasised.

He called for the active support of teachers, parents, and community leaders to create an enabling environment for students, thus ensuring the success of this transformative agenda.

The event was interactive, with stakeholders expressing their views and discussing ways to support the initiative. The Ministry of Education plans to continue these engagements across various regions, aiming to build a robust foundation for science education nationwide.