In a leadership reshuffle within Ghana’s education sector, the Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially announced Prof. Ernest Kofi Davis as its new Director-General. The announcement follows the departure of Dr. Eric Nkansah, whose tenure was marked by both accomplishments and challenges during his brief stint in the role.
The appointment of Prof. Davis signifies a renewed commitment by the government to address pressing issues in the education system. With an illustrious career in academia and administration, Prof. Davis brings a wealth of experience to his new role.
Who is Prof. Ernest Kofi Davis?
Prof. Davis, the Provost of the College of Education Studies at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), has a long-standing reputation for excellence in education and research. His academic journey began in Cape Coast and saw him attend prestigious institutions such as Mfantsipim School and the University of Cape Coast, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Education in Mathematics in 1999.
Continuing his education on an international scale, he earned a Master of Arts in Mathematics Education from Hiroshima University in Japan and later a Ph.D. in Mathematics Education from Monash University in Melbourne, Australia. These achievements were supported by notable scholarships, including the Monash Graduate Scholarship and a Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) award.
Prof. Davis’s contributions to education go beyond the classroom. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and led the team that developed Ghana’s new B.Ed national curriculum for teacher preparation, demonstrating his leadership and vision for modernizing education.
Throughout his career, Prof. Davis has held key leadership positions, including serving as Vice-President of the Ghana Education Research Association in 2018 and assuming the role of Provost at UCC in 2022. His involvement in professional bodies and dedication to educational reform make him an ideal candidate to lead the GES into a new era.
Notable awards and recognitions in his career include the British Academy Visiting Scholar Award and grants from UCC’s Directorate of Research and Innovation Consultancy (DRIC). These accolades reflect his commitment to advancing education through research and innovation.
Prof. Davis succeeds Dr. Eric Nkansah, who was appointed as Director-General in October 2022. Dr. Nkansah expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, highlighting the collaborative efforts of stakeholders during his tenure. In his farewell message, he acknowledged the support of the GES Council, staff, unions, students, and other partners, emphasizing the importance of collective action in advancing education in Ghana.
While reflecting on his time in office, Dr. Nkansah reaffirmed his dedication to Ghana’s education sector and called for continued support for his successor. His contributions and commitment leave a lasting legacy in the sector.
What’s Next for Ghana’s Education Sector?
The appointment of Prof. Davis has been met with optimism, as stakeholders anticipate his strategic approach to tackling the challenges in Ghana’s education system. His extensive background in both academia and administration positions him to implement innovative reforms that will strengthen the foundation of education in the country.
Prof. Davis’s recent inaugural lecture, themed “Socio-cultural Issues: A Missing Ingredient in Mathematics Curriculum Development and Delivery in Ghana,” highlights his deep understanding of the intersection between education and societal dynamics. This perspective is expected to play a critical role in shaping policies and strategies under his leadership.
Moving Forward
The Ghana Education Service, under the leadership of Prof. Ernest Kofi Davis, is poised to embark on a journey of transformation and growth. His appointment signals a new chapter for Ghana’s education sector, with a focus on innovation, inclusion, and excellence.
Stay tuned for updates as Prof. Davis takes on his new responsibilities and works toward reshaping Ghana’s educational landscape.