The Eastern Regional Coordinating Council (ERCC) successfully organized its Maiden Education Fair from 18th to 25th, June 2024, a week-long event aimed at connecting final year Senior High School (SHS) students with tertiary education opportunities. The event took place across five different schools in the region, bringing together students from various SHS institutions and expert representatives from universities in the country.
Some of the participating schools include: Oyoko Methodist SHS, Oda SHS, St. Peter’s SHS (PERSCO), Asamankese SHS, Okuapemman SHS (OKUASS), Ofori Panin SHS (OPASS), Koforidua Technical SHS (SECTECH), and Aburi Girls SHS (ABUGISS).
Expert representatives were from tertiary institutions such as Ashesi University, Koforidua Technical University (KTU), All Nations University (ANU), University of Environmental and Sustainable Development (UESD), Presbyterian University, Ghana (PUCG), and African University College of Communication (AUCC).
The education fair was officially launched on 18th, June 2024 at Oyoko Methodist Senior High School, Koforidua, with a grand opening ceremony graced by Hon. Seth Kwame Acheampong, the Eastern Regional Minister. In his opening remarks, he highlighted the fair’s significance as a transformative initiative aimed at empowering youth with knowledge and opportunities to shape their futures.
In an era of rapid technological advancement and global interconnectedness, he underscored the pivotal role of education, stating, “Knowledge is power, and adaptability is key to lifelong learning.” Encouraging students to explore various academic programs and embrace opportunities with open minds, he emphasized, “You stand on the border of a new chapter in your lives; the choices you make will shape your destiny.” Hon. Acheampong inspired students to dream big despite obstacles, assuring them of unwavering support from families, educators, and the government. He affirmed that the fair’s mission is not only to showcase opportunities but also to nurture students as agents of change. Aligned with President Akufo-Addo’s vision for national development, the fair aims to create a platform for the youth to realize their dreams and contribute to a prosperous Ghana.
The Eastern Regional Education Director, Dr. Ivy Asantewaa Owusu, advised students not to consider the fair as merely a social gathering but to approach it with seriousness to achieve their dreams, in a speech read on her behalf by the New Juaben North Municipal Education Director, Hilda Amegatcher Brakohiapa.
The education fair featured a series of presentations and question and answers sessions. University expert representatives provided detailed information on their academic programs, admission requirements, and scholarship opportunities. Interactive sessions allowed students to engage directly with the representatives, asking questions and seeking guidance.
The education fair drew a substantial number of students who actively engaged with university representatives and appreciated the direct interactions.
One student from St. Peter’s SHS, in an interview with Mr. Cyril Xatse (Head of Human Resources Department at the ERCC), expressed that, they had gained a clearer understanding of their higher education options and the essential steps required to achieve their academic ambitions.
Moving forward, the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council is committed to expanding future editions of the fair, incorporating more hands-on seminars and extended sessions to address a broader range of topics, thereby continuing to support the educational and career aspirations of SHS students.