The Standard Curriculum
The Standard Curriculum
Service (GES) under the Ministry of Education as part of an educational reform to focus on
competency-based learning. The curriculum identifies 9 core competencies that are essential for
learners from Kindergarten to Junior High School (JHS).
1. Number of Competencies
There are 9 core competencies in the standard curriculum for basic schools in Ghana. These
competencies are integrated across all subjects and levels to help students acquire skills that go
beyond academic knowledge.
The 9 competencies are numbered based on the order in which they are prioritized and their
importance in the learning process:
1. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Encourages students to think logically, analyze situations,
make informed decisions, and solve problems effectively.
2. Creativity and Innovation: Involves the ability to think creatively, generate new ideas, and apply
innovative solutions to real-life problems.
4. Digital Literacy: Ensures that students are proficient in using technology for learning, accessing
information, and solving problems in a digital environment.
5. Cultural Identity and Global Citizenship: Helps students appreciate their own culture while being
aware of and respecting other cultures, promoting active citizenship in a globalized world.
7. Teamwork: Focuses on the ability to work effectively as part of a group, demonstrating respect,
responsibility, and collaboration.
8. Physical and Health Education: Involves the development of physical fitness, awareness of health
and safety, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.
The competencies are applied across different subjects and learning activities in the following ways:
Subject Integration: The competencies are not standalone topics but are integrated into various
subjects. For example, in Mathematics, critical thinking and problem-solving are applied when
students analyze mathematical problems. In English, communication and collaboration are
emphasized through group discussions and presentations.
Teaching and Learning Activities: Teachers design activities that foster these competencies. For
example, in science, digital literacy can be enhanced by using technology for research and data
analysis. Creativity and innovation are encouraged in Art and Design classes through projects that
require students to create original artwork.
Assessment: The evaluation of students goes beyond traditional tests and focuses on assessing these
competencies through practical activities, projects, presentations, and group work. Competency-
based assessment emphasizes what learners can do with the knowledge they have acquired.
Classroom Environment: Teachers are encouraged to create a learning environment that supports
the development of these competencies. For example, group activities foster collaboration, while
problem-solving tasks encourage critical thinking.
These competencies are essential for equipping learners with the skills they need to navigate the
complexities of the 21st century, enabling them to apply knowledge effectively in real-world
situations.