The Municipal Director of Education for Ayawaso North, Emmanuel Kofi Takyi, has called on students across the country to uphold Christian values and embrace the opportunities presented by Ghana’s reformed educational system.
He made this call at the National Leavers Summit 2025, organized by the Scripture Union Ghana Schools Outreach Ministry in collaboration with PENT TV at the Church of Pentecost, Kaneshie Worship Centre on September 20, 2025.
The summit, held under the theme “Focusing, Guiding and Nurturing the Next Generation Today” (Prov. 22:6, Hosea 4:6, 1 Chron. 12:32), brought together Junior High School (JHS), Senior High School (SHS) and tertiary graduates for a time of praise, prayer, and empowerment.
Takyi emphasised that education goes beyond academic achievement, noting that the new Ghanaian curriculum prioritizes character formation, nurturing values, leadership development and critical thinking.
He highlighted key values respect, diversity, empathy, teamwork, collaboration, truth and integrity as central to education, questioning whether these are being reflected in society.
“Our task as parents, religious organizations, and students is to live by these values. As Christians, we are the light of the world. Let us let our light so shine before men that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven,” he said.
Encouraging students advancing to SHS, he reminded them to be grateful regardless of their school placement, citing 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
He also advised tertiary students to take advantage of the diverse study options—regular, weekend, and distance programs while balancing education with employable skills.
Several church leaders also underscored the importance of guiding students beyond academics.
Pastor Frank Mensah Tandoh, National Coordinator for the Schools Outreach Ministry, explained the purpose of the summit, “At the JHS and SHS level, excitement is very high after completion. Any wind can blow them away, so we have to guide and train them.”
Apostle Daniel K Derkpor, Area Head for Kaneshie, added that the gathering is meant to prepare young people for life’s challenges while pointing them to Christ, “Even though we want them to know what is ahead of them, we still want them to know that Christ is the ultimate.”
Pastor Dr Felix Dela Klutse, Director for PENT Media, emphasized that true education is about shaping character, “Education is not just about training the mind, but about shaping the character of young people, which will go a long way to help them in the future.”
The National Leavers Summit serves as a platform to mentor and inspire students at crucial transition stages. Organizers believe that without proper guidance, many young people risk being misled after completing school.
