Rev. Dr. Nana Kwesi Essel-Okyeahene, founder and director of Young Executive School (YES) in Kasoa and Onua Francis International School, has raised concerns about the growing infiltration of partisan politics into Ghana’s educational institutions, warning that the trend threatens student development and the integrity of the country’s learning environment.
An ordained reverend and traditional leader (Gyaasehene of Gomoa Wassa), Rev. Dr. Essel-Okyeahene noted that campuses—once regarded as neutral grounds for intellectual growth and character formation—are gradually becoming arenas for political rivalry and influence.
Speaking on the increasing wave of political activity across universities, nursing training colleges, and colleges of education, he cautioned that the shift risks distorting the core purpose of education.
He explained that early and intense exposure to partisan politics could derail students from focusing on their academic and professional goals. Instead of dedicating time to building competence, critical thinking, and discipline, some students may be drawn into the pursuit of political recognition, financial incentives, and social visibility.
Rev. Dr. Essel-Okyeahene warned that such tendencies could have long-term consequences for the nation, as graduates may enter the workforce without the depth of knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding needed to drive sustainable development. He stressed that education should be a period of preparation—not premature politicisation.
Touching on ongoing national discussions about reviewing the minimum age requirement for presidential candidates, he acknowledged the importance of youth inclusion in governance. However, he cautioned that lowering the age threshold without addressing the politicisation of campuses could encourage students to prioritise political ambition over education and personal growth.
He further emphasised that while civic awareness and leadership development are important aspects of education, they must be carefully structured within non-partisan frameworks that promote national values rather than party allegiance.
Rev. Dr. Essel-Okyeahene therefore called on key stakeholders—including educators, policymakers, and parents—to take deliberate steps to protect the sanctity of academic spaces.
He urged school authorities to enforce regulations that limit partisan political activities on campuses while promoting platforms for constructive dialogue, leadership training, and responsible citizenship.
He concluded that Ghana’s future depends heavily on the quality of its human capital, insisting that schools must remain centres of excellence where students are equipped with knowledge, discipline, and integrity—not battlegrounds for political contestation.
