At the heart of every thriving society is a generation of people who are not only knowledgeable and skilled but also possess strong character.
This was the central message at the 4th graduation ceremony of Yonso Project Model School in the Ashanti Region, where the focus was placed on the urgent need to prioritize character development in Ghana’s education system.
The school, founded just four years ago by Mr. Kwabena Danso, started with only 63 pupils but now boasts an enrollment of over 700 students, supported by well-trained and dedicated teachers.
More than just academics, the school is widely recognized for its focus on holistic education one that balances knowledge, practical skills, and strong moral values.
Mr. Danso, who also heads the school, believes education must go beyond books and certificates.
He emphasized that children must be shaped in a way that prepares them not only for academic success but also for responsible citizenship.
“We believe a truly educated person must have three things: knowledge, skills, and character. Many have the knowledge and the skills, but without character, they become harmful to society. That’s why we see so much corruption,it starts from the kind of education we give,” he said.
The founder also made it clear that he does not believe any child is dull.
According to him, every child has a unique strength that can be identified and nurtured when practical learning is encouraged.
The school, therefore, makes deliberate efforts to guide students in identifying future academic paths as they approach Senior High School, based on their talents and interests.
“Every child is born with a gift. What matters is how we help them find it. That’s why we use practical learning to discover where each child shines. We don’t just teach to pass exams,we teach to build lives,” he explained.
Mr. Danso also raised concerns about Ghana’s current education system, which he believes focuses too heavily on rote learning and ignores the importance of character.
He called on the Ministry of Education to review the national curriculum to make room for structured character development in all schools, both public and private.
“If we continue educating children just to pass exams, without teaching them integrity, respect, and responsibility, we will keep producing leaders who know the law but break it. The government must look into how values can be restored through character training in our schools,” he urged.
The ceremony brought together parents, educators, community members, and traditional leaders, who all applauded the school’s efforts to raise well-rounded students.
As Ghana prepares the next generation of leaders, Yonso Project Model School hopes its approach will serve as a model worth emulating across the country.
