Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has revealed that Otumfuo’s timely intervention was crucial in reversing the World Bank’s decision to cancel two major educational projects when the New Patriotic Party (NPP) assumed power in 2017.
Dr. Prempeh, who was then the Education Minister, stated that the Ghana Accountability for Learning Outcomes Project (GALOP) and the Jobs and Skills Project were at risk of being canceled by the World Bank Group.
GALOP is a five-year initiative aimed at improving education quality in low-performing basic schools and enhancing equity and accountability in Ghana’s education sector. The Jobs and Skills Project focuses on supporting skills development and job creation.
Otumfuo’s intervention persuaded the World Bank to reconsider, leading to the restoration of approximately $200 million in funding for GALOP and an additional $200 million for the Jobs and Skills Project.
“This is the extraordinary traditional ruler we are celebrating through this commemorative gold coin,” Dr. Prempeh, popularly called NAPO, said when he received the gold coin at his office on February 22, 2022.
A delegation from the multi-functional entity E ON 3 Group and its key partners presented the gold coin to Dr. Prempeh.
Value of the Gold Coin
Dr. Prempeh emphasized that the honor of receiving the gold coin was a testament to the nation’s appreciation of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s contributions to national development.
“Thank you for putting your good name on a good cause,” Dr. Prempeh told the E ON 3 Group and its partners.
Investment in the Gold Coin
The Energy Minister urged Ghanaians to invest in the Otumfuo commemorative gold coin when it becomes available for sale. He explained that gold is a store of value, and since the commemorative coin has official authorization, it would be a beneficial investment.
“It is always good to store your money in gold, and I will encourage every able Ghanaian, willing and with the resources, to have this value stored for you.
“You buy it today and I’m sure in five years it is going to appreciate,” he stated.
“We are looking forward to you selling the gold coin so that we can also purchase some,” Dr. Prempeh added.
From wars to education
Taking a journey into history, Dr. Prempeh said the tradition of the Asante has moved from warmongers to peacemaking, and from the battlefield to the classroom.
“From Prempeh I to Opoku Ware II to Osei Tutu II, the battle cry has been education,” he stated.