Golden Inspires Foundation (GIF-GHANA), in collaboration with the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the National Youth Authority (NYA), holds the High School Summit 2024. The summit took place on 25th June, 2024 at Dagbon State Senior High School (SHS) in Yendi, Northern Ghana, which brought together both Senior High and Junior High students from across the Yendi Municipality, particularly those preparing for their Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and West Africa Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
The summit, designed to prepare and motivate students for their upcoming examinations, featured a lineup of distinguished speakers who addressed various aspects of academic success and personal development.
The President of Golden Inspires Foundation, Madam Ayisha Mohammed, gave the opening remarks with a warm welcome to all participants. She outlined the foundation’s objectives and emphasized the summit’s crucial role in shaping the lives and future of students. Her words set an inspiring tone for the day’s proceedings, highlighting the importance of education and personal growth.

The Guidance and Counseling Coordinator at Ghana Education Service-Yendi, Mr. Yakubu Musah took center stage to provide invaluable advice to the students. His comprehensive counseling session focused on exam preparation and ethical conduct. Mr. Musah strongly cautioned against exam malpractice, urging students to rely on their own abilities and hard work. He emphasized the importance of determination and resilience, encouraging students to resist any negative pressures from parents or peers that might lead them astray in their academic pursuits.
The event’s chairman, Mr. Adamu Iddrisu, representing the Yendi Education Director, offered crucial insights into the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) processes. His presentation delved into the complexities of exam roles, guidelines, marking schemes, and question-setting procedures. Mr. Iddrisu stressed the importance of understanding these aspects to perform well in examinations. He advised students to strictly adhere to exam rules, emphasizing that compliance is key to achieving better grades and ensuring a fair assessment process

Following his presentation, Madam Takiyatu Akilu, who is the STEM and Gender Officer at Golden Inspires Foundation, took students through a comprehensive overview of educational and career opportunities. Her presentation focused on prospective courses and programs available at both Senior High and tertiary levels. Madam Akilu offered valuable information about various educational institutions in the Northern Region and across Ghana, helping students understand their options for further studies. Additionally, she outlined potential career paths associated with different programs, giving students a clearer picture of how their academic choices could shape their professional futures.

Addressing the psychological aspects of exam preparation, Alhaji Mohammed Awal, the Social Welfare Officer for Yendi Municipal, reminded students of the importance of mental and emotional well-being. He emphasized that true comfort comes from within, highlighting the connection between a sound mind and a sound body. Alhaji Awal’s advice touched on the challenges students might face, such as distractions from relationships or household responsibilities. He encouraged students to prioritize their education and maintain focus on their right to learn, despite potential external pressures.

Mr. Mohammed Suhuyini Shaharan, General Manager of Sankara Radio, shares a valuable advice on time management and effective study habits. His presentation focused on practical tips for balancing academic responsibilities and personal life. Mr. Shaharan emphasized the importance of self-confidence, encouraging students to believe in their abilities and maintain a positive attitude towards their examinations. His words aimed to instill a sense of self-assurance and determination in the students as they approach their academic challenges.
The High School Summit 2024 represents a significant collaborative effort by local organizations and educational authorities to support and prepare students in the Yendi Municipal area for their academic challenges. By addressing various aspects of exam preparation, from practical study tips to emotional well-being, the event aimed to equip students with a holistic set of tools and mindsets needed for success in their educational journey.
This summit demonstrates the community’s commitment to nurturing the potential of young learners in Northern Ghana. It highlights the importance of providing guidance, support, and motivation to students, particularly those preparing for critical examinations that will shape their future academic and professional paths.

As students return to their studies with renewed focus and determination, the impact of this summit is expected to resonate in their academic performances and future career choices. The event not only provided practical knowledge but also aimed to inspire and empower students to take charge of their educational journey.
The collaboration between Golden Inspires Foundation, Ghana Education Service, and the National Youth Authority sets a positive example of how different organizations can come together to create meaningful educational initiatives. This partnership approach ensures that students receive well-rounded support, benefiting from the diverse expertise and resources of multiple stakeholders in the education sector.