Ghana’s educational system has undergone numerous reforms over the decades, shaped by the priorities of successive governments. From the O-Level and A-Level systems to the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), the structure has evolved with the times.
Each system aimed to provide a foundation for students to pursue higher education and enter the workforce equipped with knowledge and skills. Yet, a shadow looms over these efforts: the creeping influence of “Who You Know” over “What You Know.” This mindset, often discussed in hushed tones, has gradually undermined the essence of education in Ghana and beyond.
The value of earning a degree, a symbol of academic excellence and hard work, has been diminished in a society increasingly driven by connections and favoritism.
Graduates enter the job market burdened not only by the challenges of National Service but also by the harsh reality that a degree alone often isn’t enough. The days when education was celebrated as the ultimate gateway to success are fading.
Once, a university degree brought prestige to families, served as a direct path to white-collar jobs, and aligned graduates with professions that matched their studies. Now, the narrative has shifted. The path to employment often involves paying bribes or leveraging personal connections rather than demonstrating competence or expertise.
The “Brown Envelope” and “Who You Know” culture now dominate the employment landscape. Those unwilling or unable to participate in this system risk joining the growing ranks of unemployed graduates or settling for underemployment. This reality disproportionately affects individuals from less privileged backgrounds who lack the resources or networks to compete.
The consequences of this shift extend beyond individuals. Hiring unqualified personnel through connections undermines organizational efficiency and national progress. Industries suffer from a lack of expertise, and the country as a whole pays the price in lost productivity and innovation. It is a vicious cycle—one that perpetuates inequality and stifles development.
While connections can play a role in career advancement, they should not come at the expense of merit. A degree represents countless hours of effort, sleepless nights, and personal sacrifice. It is a testament to resilience and intellectual growth. Reducing its value to a mere formality strips it of its significance and discourages students from striving for excellence.
To break free from this cycle, there must be a collective shift in mindset. Institutions, both public and private, must prioritize merit-based recruitment and create pathways for talent to thrive regardless of background. Society must also reclaim the pride and value once associated with education, acknowledging not only the connections one may build but also the knowledge and skills one acquires.
As a nation, we can not afford to overlook the power of knowledge in driving development. Our industries need skilled professionals, innovators, and thinkers who can apply their expertise to solve pressing challenges. Let us remember that education remains one of the most powerful tools for individual and collective progress.
It is time to rebuild trust in the system, ensure equal opportunities, and empower all Ghanaians to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s future. Let’s embrace the value of a degree earned with knowledge while encouraging a fair and inclusive job market.
God bless our homeland, Ghana.
Author: Esinam Fiadzoe
