Prioritise your youngsters’s schooling for a greater long run – Torgbui Fiti to oldsters – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” That timeless adage rings especially true in today’s Ghana, where the future of the nation hinges on the knowledge and skills of its young people. In a recent address at the tenth anniversary of the Mercyland Association of Aflao, Paramount Chief Torgbui Adzonugaga Amenya Fiti V urged parents and community leaders to view schooling as a priceless legacy and to actively invest in the educational journey of their children.

In this article we unpack the chief’s message, explore the broader context of Ghana’s education system, analyse the long‑term benefits of prioritising learning, and offer practical steps for families to ensure their youngsters thrive. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or community organizer, the insights below aim to inspire action and secure a brighter future for the next generation.

Key Points

Background

Who is Torgbui Fiti?

Paramount Chief Torgbui Adzonugaga Amenya Fiti V is the traditional ruler of the Aflao Traditional Area, a coastal community in the Volta Region of Ghana. As the President of the Aflao Traditional Council and a respected elder, he plays a pivotal role in guiding socio‑economic development, preserving cultural heritage and fostering education within his jurisdiction.

The Mercyland Association of Aflao

Founded in 2015, the Mercyland Association is a grassroots organization that brings together women, community leaders and philanthropists to promote social welfare. Over the past decade, the association has contributed more than GHS 14,000 to the Ketu South Municipal Hospital, disbursed GHS 26,000 in scholarships for 14 orphans, and provided GHS 10,000 to five widows to start small businesses. Its tenth anniversary celebration—where Chief Fiti took the stage—highlighted these achievements and reaffirmed the group’s commitment to youth development.

Ghana’s Education Landscape

Ghana’s education system follows a 6‑3‑3‑4 structure: six years of primary schooling, three years of junior secondary, three years of senior secondary and four years of tertiary education. The 2014 National Education Plan set a target of 100 % universal basic education and a 70 % enrolment in secondary education by 2025. Yet, challenges remain: inadequate school infrastructure, teacher shortages, high dropout rates in adolescence, and rising out‑of‑school children, especially in rural areas.

Why the Message Matters

Chief Fiti’s appeal aligns with national development goals. By prioritising schooling, families can break the cycle of poverty, improve health outcomes, and accelerate economic growth. His call to reduce “excessive spending on funeral attire, church buildings and social gatherings” reflects a broader strategy: reallocating limited resources to foundational human capital rather than short‑term materialism.

Analysis

Education as Human Capital

In economics, human capital refers to the skills, knowledge and experience possessed by an individual. Education is the primary mechanism through which human capital is built. According to the World Bank, each additional year of schooling raises an individual’s earnings potential by about 10 %–15 % in sub‑Saharan Africa. For Ghana, the return on investment (ROI) for primary and secondary education is especially high, given the country’s growing service and technology sectors.

Long‑Term Socio‑Economic Impact

When children receive a solid educational foundation, they are more likely to:

1. Secure stable employment and higher wages.
2. Engage in civic participation and democratic processes.
3. Adopt healthier lifestyles, reducing healthcare costs.
4. Contribute to innovation, entrepreneurship and community development.

Conversely, children who drop out of school face higher risks of unemployment, chronic poverty, and involvement in crime. This dynamic creates a self‑reinforcing cycle that can hinder national progress.

Social Mobility and Leadership

Chief Fiti’s vision of children becoming MPs, ministers, CEOs and even presidents underscores the transformative power of education. Historically, many Ghanaian leaders—including former President John Kufuor and former Minister of Education Kwame Nkrumah—emerged from modest backgrounds but rose to prominence by investing in their own learning. Their stories illustrate that education can level the playing field and unlock leadership potential.

Community‑Based Solutions

The Mercyland Association’s contributions demonstrate the efficacy of collective action. By pooling resources, communities can provide scholarships, support school infrastructure, and create mentorship programmes that complement formal schooling. Such efforts create a safety net for children who might otherwise be forced to abandon their studies due to financial constraints.

Practical Advice

1. Create a Household Education Budget

Start by listing all monthly expenses. Identify discretionary items—such as expensive funeral attire, lavish church events or non‑essential social gatherings—that can be trimmed. Allocate the savings to school fees, uniform, books, and transportation. A simple spreadsheet or budgeting app can track progress.

2. Research Scholarship and Grant Opportunities

Many NGOs, corporate foundations and the Ghanaian government offer scholarships for primary, secondary and tertiary education. For instance, the Ghana Scholarship Fund and Ghana Education Service (GES) provide bursaries for academically meritorious students. Keep a calendar of application deadlines and gather required documents early.

3. Engage with Local Schools and Community Leaders

Attend school board meetings, volunteer at school events, and maintain open communication with teachers. Schools often need volunteers for tutoring, maintenance or fundraising. This involvement can also uncover hidden challenges and opportunities for improvement.

4. Encourage Reading and Lifelong Learning

Beyond formal schooling, cultivate a culture of curiosity. Provide access to books, libraries, and educational media. Encourage children to pursue hobbies that build critical thinking—such as puzzles, science kits, or coding workshops. Many online platforms now offer free or low‑cost courses for learners of all ages.

5. Leverage Community Resources

Partner with local organisations such as the Mercyland Association, Rotary clubs, or faith‑based groups to create scholarship funds or learning centres. These partnerships can also facilitate mentorship programmes where successful professionals share knowledge with youth.

6. Monitor Academic Progress and Address Challenges Early

Set regular check‑ins with teachers and the child’s classmates to track grades and attendance. If you notice declining performance, intervene promptly—consider tutoring, extra study time, or counseling if needed. Early action often prevents dropout.

7. Model Responsible Spending and Financial Literacy

Teach children about budgeting, saving, and the value of money. Use real‑life scenarios—such as saving for a school trip—to illustrate how disciplined spending can lead to future benefits.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chief Torgbui Fiti’s call to prioritise children’s schooling is a powerful reminder that the greatest legacy a parent can give is the gift of knowledge. By reallocating resources, engaging community partners, and fostering a culture of learning, families can unlock the full potential of their youngsters. The benefits ripple far beyond the individual: healthier families, stronger economies, and a more equitable society.

Invest today in your child’s education—because the returns will be felt not only for a single generation but for decades to come.

Sources

1. Life Pulse Daily. “Prioritise your youngsters’s schooling for a greater long run – Torgbui Fiti to oldsters.” 16 December 2025.
2. Ghana Education Service (GES). Annual Report 2023.
3. World Bank. “Education and Human Capital in Sub‑Saharan Africa.” 2022.
4. Ghana Scholarship Fund. Scholarships for Secondary and Tertiary Students. 2024.
5. Mercyland Association of Aflao. Annual Report 2023.
6. Ghana News Agency (GNA). “Aflao Traditional Council Highlights Youth Development Initiatives.” 2024.
7. Ghanaian Ministry of Education. “National Education Plan 2014–2030.” 2014.