Former Education Minister Adutwum Calls Some University Courses “Useless”
Former Education Minister Yaw Osei Adutwum has sparked nationwide debate after describing some university programmes in Ghana as "useless," arguing that they do not prepare graduates for meaningful employment.
The comments were made during an appearance on the Konnected Minds Podcast, where Dr. Adutwum urged universities to align their academic programmes with Ghana's labour market needs rather than introducing courses simply to increase student enrolment.
Universities Must Meet Labour Market Needs
According to Dr. Adutwum, higher education institutions should conduct labour market assessments before introducing or expanding academic programmes.
He argued that Ghana needs more professionals in areas such as:
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Science and Technology
- Technical and Vocational Education
Instead of focusing on programmes with limited employment prospects, universities should train students in disciplines that directly contribute to national development and economic growth.
The Two Programmes He Criticised
Dr. Adutwum specifically mentioned two university programmes he believes do not adequately prepare graduates for the job market.
1. Development Studies
The former minister questioned the relevance of Development Studies, particularly the programme offered at the University for Development Studies.
He revealed that while serving as Education Minister, he publicly challenged the programme during the New Year School conference.
According to him, shortly after those remarks, the Vice-Chancellor informed him that one student had withdrawn from the programme.
Dr. Adutwum said he believed the decision benefited the student because, in his opinion, the programme did not provide a clear career pathway.
2. BA in Education (Non-Teaching)
The second programme he criticised was the BA in Education (Non-Teaching) offered by the University of Ghana.
He argued that many graduates complete their national service only to struggle to secure permanent employment because the degree does not qualify them to become teachers and does not clearly position them for other industries.
He described such qualifications as "degrees to nowhere."
Universities Accused of Prioritising Enrolment
Dr. Adutwum further alleged that some universities continue to run these programmes mainly because they attract tuition-paying students.
According to him, institutions should prioritise national development instead of filling classrooms simply to generate revenue.
He stressed that tertiary education should equip graduates with practical and employable skills that match current workforce demands.
Mixed Reactions Expected
The comments have generated significant public discussion.
While some people agree that universities should focus on employability and industry needs, others argue that programmes such as Development Studies provide valuable knowledge in policy analysis, community development, research, governance, and non-governmental organisations.
Education experts have long maintained that graduate employability depends not only on the title of a degree but also on the quality of training, practical experience, transferable skills, and labour market conditions.
Calls for Education Reform
Dr. Adutwum's remarks have reignited conversations about:
- Graduate unemployment in Ghana
- The relevance of university curricula
- Skills-based education
- Labour market planning
- STEM education
- University programme accreditation
Many observers believe the discussion highlights the need for stronger collaboration between universities, employers, industry, and government to ensure graduates possess skills that meet the country's development priorities.
Conclusion
Whether one agrees with Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum or not, his comments have opened an important national conversation about the future of higher education in Ghana. As graduate unemployment remains a pressing challenge, stakeholders are expected to continue debating how universities can better prepare students for successful careers while balancing academic diversity and national development goals.