TheNational Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) has firmly denied claims that the government intends to introduce or promoteLGBTQ content in Ghana’s education system. According to NaCCA, theSenior High School (SHS) curriculum remains grounded in Ghana’ssocio-cultural values, constitutional principles, and child-centred development goals. The clarification follows public backlash over an alleged definition of “gender” found in an elective teacher manual for Physical Education and Health.
NaCCA Responds to Public Concerns
NaCCA stated that reports suggesting the promotion of LGBTQ concepts in Ghanaian schools are false and misleading. The Council emphasised that:
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No LGBTQ-related content exists in the approved national curriculum
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The government has no intention to promote, endorse, or introduce such content at any level of education
The response was issued after public concerns arose from content circulating on social media.
Difference Between Curriculum and Teacher Manuals
NaCCA explained the distinction between the national curriculum and teacher manuals to address misunderstandings:
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National Curriculum:
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Official policy document
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Defines compulsory subjects and learning areas
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Mandatory for all schools
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Teacher Manuals:
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Supplementary instructional guides
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Provide pedagogical support for teachers
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Optional and not part of the curriculum
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Teachers can deliver the approved curriculum without using these manuals.
Review and Revision of Teacher Manual Content
NaCCA acknowledged that a definition of “Gender Identity” appeared in the Year 2 Physical Education and Health (Elective Teacher Manual), which was later found to be inconsistent with Ghanaian values.
Following an internal review:
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The content was removed
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A revised version aligned with national values and biological understanding has been released
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The updated manual is publicly accessible
Milestones in SHS Curriculum Development
NaCCA outlined key developments in the curriculum reform process:
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A new SHS curriculum was introduced in the 2024/2025 academic year
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Teacher Manuals were developed for the first time to support teachers
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Subject-specific writing teams were formed in collaboration with T-TEL
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Materials underwent technical review and stakeholder consultation
Official Remarks from NaCCA
According to the statement signed by Professor Samuel Osei O. Ofori Bekoe, Director-General of NaCCA:
“Our curriculum remains firmly anchored in the socio-cultural fabric of Ghana, constitutional principles, and child-centred development goals.”
He further added:
“We are grateful for the continued support of the public as we take responsible steps to ensure our educational resources remain a true reflection of our national identity.”
FAQs
Is LGBTQ content part of Ghana’s SHS curriculum?
No. NaCCA states clearly that no such content exists in the approved curriculum.
Was LGBTQ content introduced through teacher manuals?
No. A disputed definition appeared in a draft teacher manual, which has since been reviewed and corrected.
Are teacher manuals compulsory?
No. They are optional support materials and do not define the curriculum.
Has the manual been revised?
Yes. A revised version aligned with Ghanaian values has been released.
