Educationist Raises Concerns Over NaCCA’s Performance

Educationist Stephen Yaaney has raised concerns about the effectiveness of employees at National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA).

He stated, “The recent recall of a textbook titled ‘History of Ghana for Basic Schools – Learners’ Book Four,’ published by Excellence Publications, is evidence of someone at NaCCA not performing his duties effectively.”

In an interview with George Adjei on Nkwantannanso on May 30, Mr Yaaney expressed surprise at how such an oversight could happen, given that this statutory body has a dedicated unit responsible for ensuring textbook alignment with the syllabus.

He emphasized, “NaCCA always releases the curriculum or syllabus first, and there is a unit whose main purpose is to ensure that every textbook is in accordance with the syllabus.”

When questioned about the potential impact on students who have already studied from the recalled textbook, Mr Yaaney stated that teachers have the ability to guide students in unlearning any incorrect information.

He noted, “Since children are still in their formative years, the teachers have a way to make them unlearn.”

The recall of the textbook has prompted discussions about the quality control processes within NaCCA and the necessity for more stringent measures to ensure the accuracy and alignment of educational materials with the curriculum.

NaCCA has clarified that the content in the published book does not accurately reflect the approved curriculum.

The textbook includes erroneous statements suggesting that Christianity is responsible for poverty. It also claims that religion hinders practical efforts to improve living conditions.

In response, NaCCA has written to Excellence Publications, urging them to immediately withdraw all copies of the textbook from the market.