Prof. Ato Essuman
Source: John Awuni
The International Conference on Education, Development and Innovation (INCEDI) 2025 opened with a strong call for education reforms that are equitable, inclusive, and tailored to the unique contexts of countries in the Global South.
Delivering the welcome address, Professor Ato Essuman, Conference Director, stressed that while education reform is a “critical global priority” capable of addressing deep-rooted inequalities and preparing students for 21st-century challenges, policymakers must avoid a one-size-fits-all approach.
“Across the world, countries are implementing reform efforts aimed at improving student outcomes, addressing systemic inefficiencies, and integrating technological advancements in the curricula,” Prof. Essuman noted.
He, however, said despite numerous efforts, the results have been mixed, often due to a lack of focus on the lessons learned from successful education systems.
Caution
He cautioned against the “presumed standardisation” of reforms, pointing to global initiatives such as Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which sets broad educational targets. While these goals are important, he said, they must be adapted to “each education system’s historical, cultural, and social particularities.”
The conference theme — Education Reforms in the Global South: Lessons from the Past, Insights for the Present — reflects this emphasis. “It is time to retell a new story that effective education reforms are about creating systems that are equitable, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of particular countries,” Prof. Essuman declared.
He highlighted the evolving demands of the modern world, he argued that the most important skills for the future extend beyond technical competence.
“Problem-solving, creative thinking, artificial intelligence, and communication are just as valuable,” he said, adding that “companies desire to hire people who can understand problems, work in teams, and communicate ideas clearly.”
Technology
Technology, he observed, is reshaping every aspect of life, creating opportunities for those willing to “explore, learn, and create.”
Prof. Essuman also said: “The future is not something that just happens; it is something that is created, and I believe that among us here are the people who can shape this future.”
He also previewed one of the conference’s highlights, a keynote address on how digital transformation is reshaping learning in the Global South. He urged participants to reflect on how technology can be harnessed to advance quality education.
Prof. Essuman further expressed gratitude to participants, special guests, and sponsors for their “enthusiasm, passion, and commitment”.
He called on delegates to focus on “a more holistic approach to education reforms, emphasizing the quality of learning and the empowerment of educators.”
