The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) has withdrawn printed copies of a Senior High School (SHS) teacher manual after admitting that portions on “Gender Identity” in the Year 2 Physical Education and Health (Elective) Teacher Manual were inconsistent with Ghanaian cultural norms and values. A revised edition, aligned with national values and biological perspectives, has since been issued.
This action follows claims by Assin South Member of Parliament, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, that the government was advancing an LGBTQ agenda through teacher manuals and other teaching and learning materials (TLMs) in schools. The controversy stemmed from a specific definition contained in the Year 2 Physical Education and Health (Elective) Teacher Manual, a supplementary resource developed in 2024 to support teachers in delivering the new SHS curriculum introduced last academic year.
In a statement issued the same day, NaCCA clarified the distinction between the official SHS curriculum and teacher support materials, stressing that the curriculum itself contains no LGBTQ-related content. The council noted that teacher manuals are supplementary resources meant to guide educators, and their use is optional.
The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) has reiterated that the Government of Ghana has no plans to promote, endorse, or introduce LGBTQ content at any stage of the educational system. “Our curriculum remains firmly rooted in Ghana’s socio-cultural values, constitutional principles, and child-centred development goals,” the council stated.
NaCCA confirmed that the earlier manuals are being withdrawn from circulation, with all future revisions to be provided digitally. The council further encouraged the public and stakeholders to rely on verified information in their discussions, reaffirming its commitment to transparency, responsiveness, and the preservation of educational materials that reflect Ghana’s national values. Director-General, Professor Samuel O. Ofori-Bekoe, underscored the council’s dedication to delivering a high-quality education system that is consistent with the country’s cultural heritage and constitutional framework.
Source: Abigail Arthur
