Leveraging educational technologies in times of economic turbulence

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A roadmap for educational services stakeholders in Ghana

By Kiki ROCKSON, CEO of Electronic Merchant Services, Ghana &  Freda Kabuki OCANSEY (Dr)

The economic landscape in Ghana presents numerous challenges, especially in the education sector where scarce resources and competing priorities impact stakeholders across the board. As we navigate these turbulent times, educational technologies emerge as a vital tool for enhancing the efficiency, accessibility, and overall impact of tertiary education.

This feature will explore how institutions like Regent University College of Science and Technology, along with service providers, students, parents, and other key stakeholders, can harness these technologies to maintain and even enhance educational outcomes.

In this feature, the Authors discuss how tertiary education stakeholders, including institutions like Regent University College of Science and Technology, can leverage educational technologies during economic turbulence.

The feature highlights the role of these technologies in enhancing accessibility, reducing costs, and improving educational outcomes, making them indispensable tools for overcoming the constraints posed by scarce resources in Ghana.

Educational Technologies as a Strategic Asset

For tertiary institutions, integrating educational technologies is no longer an option but a necessity. These tools offer a way to extend learning beyond traditional classrooms, reaching students in diverse geographical and economic conditions. Platforms like learning management systems (LMS), virtual labs, and online libraries enable Regent University to offer flexible learning modalities that are crucial in times of financial constraint.

One of the most compelling advantages of educational technologies is cost reduction. By adopting online and blended learning models, institutions can decrease the need for physical infrastructure, reduce travel expenses for students, and minimize day-to-day operational costs.

For service providers, this presents an opportunity to partner with educational institutions to develop tailored solutions that address specific logistical challenges, thereby expanding their market reach and impact.

The use of educational technologies allows for the implementation of personalized learning paths, immediate feedback mechanisms, and a wider range of learning resources that can be adjusted to meet individual student needs.

This adaptability is crucial in ensuring that students, regardless of their economic background, have access to quality education. Interactive tools and gamification can also increase student engagement and retention rates, which are often challenged during economic downturns.

For parents and students, the flexibility offered by educational technologies means that continuing education can fit into a variety of lifestyles and financial situations. Parents can be more involved in their children’s learning processes thanks to digital tools that provide them with real-time updates on academic progress and areas needing attention.

Educational technologies also foster greater collaboration among educational stakeholders. Through forums, online meetings, and collaborative platforms, students, teachers, and parents can create a supportive network that enhances educational outcomes. For tertiary institutions and service providers, this network serves as a critical feedback loop for improving and tailoring educational products and services to meet evolving needs.

Conclusion

As CEO of Electronic Merchant Services in Ghana, I advocate for a strategic embrace of educational technologies to address the challenges posed by economic turbulence. By doing so, stakeholders like Regent University College of Science and Technology can ensure that education remains a priority and a feasible pursuit for all involved parties.

The future of education in Ghana depends on our ability to innovate and adapt, ensuring that learning continues unimpeded by economic pressures. Let us harness the power of technology to build an education system that is not only resilient but also capable of thriving in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, Kiki Rockson advocates for a strategic embrace of educational technologies as essential tools for navigating the challenges of economic turbulence in Ghana. He emphasizes that these technologies not only help reduce costs and enhance learning outcomes but also foster resilience within the education sector.

By integrating advanced technological solutions, stakeholders including educational institutions like Regent University College of Science and Technology can ensure education remains accessible and effective, even in times of limited resources. Rockson’s vision underscores the importance of innovation and adaptability, positioning educational technologies as crucial for sustaining and advancing educational quality amid economic pressures.

Kiki Rockson is the CEO of Electronic Merchant Services in Ghana, and Dr. Freda Kabuki Ocansey are both visionary leaders with a strong focus on leveraging technology to enhance educational outcomes.

With a deep understanding of the challenges posed by economic turbulence, particularly in the education sector, Rockson advocates for the strategic use of educational technologies to improve accessibility, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in learning environments.

His leadership is marked by a commitment to innovation and collaboration, aiming to equip educational institutions and stakeholders with the tools necessary to thrive in challenging economic conditions.

Kiki Rockson is the CEO of Electronic Merchant Services, Ghana and Dr Ocansey is the Executive Assistant to the Vice President, Regent University College of Science and Technology

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