The Adutwum Factor

Biography of
Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum

Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum is a distinguished Ghanaian educator, policymaker, and visionary leader in global education reform. With over three decades of experience in education and governance, he has dedicated his career to transforming learning systems to equip young people with the skills needed for the future.

Born in Jachie, Ashanti Region, Ghana, Dr. Adutwum pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Land Economy from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). His passion for education led him to the United States, where he earned a Master’s degree in Education Management from the University of La Verne and a Ph.D. in Educational Policy, Planning, and Administration from the University of Southern California.

Dr. Adutwum began his career as a Mathematics and Information Technology teacher at Manual Arts High School in Los Angeles, where he championed innovative teaching strategies to improve student performance. In 2004, he founded New Designs Charter Schools in California, a network dedicated to high- quality, student-centered education, particularly in underserved communities.

Returning to Ghana, he served as Member of Parliament (MP) for the Bosomtwe Constituency and Deputy Minister for Education (2017-2021) before being appointed Minister for Education (2021-2024). Under his leadership, Ghana witnessed groundbreaking reforms, including:

Free Senior High
School Policy

Expanding access to secondary education for all Ghanaian students.

STEM Education
Development

Establishing specialized STEM schools and integrating aerospace, robotics, and AI into the curriculum.

Public School
Transformation

A strategic solution to manage increased enrollment while maintaining quality education.

Party Vision

The Unifier Ready to Lead

A party that’s cohesive, mission-driven, and laser-focused on reclaiming leadership in 2028.

Education at the Heart of Development

A robust, equitable education system offering every Ghanaian the tools to succeed backed by STEM, TVET, and global standards.

Modern Economy, Modern Opportunity

An economy powered by industrialization, technology-driven agriculture, tourism, mineral wealth, and a people-focused health system.

Empowered Middle Class & Inclusive Growth

Building a prosperous Ghana where opportunity, dignity, and potential are widespread not just for a few.

Meet Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum

Historic Educational Infrastructure Milestone

As Minister for Education, Dr. Adutwum made history on November 21, 2024, by commissioning 80 educational projects in a single day—a milestone achievement in Ghana’s education sector. This unprecedented initiative underscores his unwavering commitment to expanding access to quality education, enhancing infrastructure, and fostering an environment where students can thrive. His leadership has ensured that every Ghanaian child, regardless of location, has access to modern and well-equipped learning facilities.

Investing in the Future of Ghana’s Engineers

Beyond his ministerial role, Dr. Adutwum remains deeply committed to nurturing young talent. As a Member of Parliament and through his YOA Foundation, he has personally provided full scholarship to 150 bright young students from his constituency to pursue Engineering and Medicine at selected universities in Ghana including the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT). This initiative covers full tuition and stipends from Level 100 to Level 400, ensuring that these students receive the necessary support to succeed.
The first cohort of this scholarship program has already secured National Service placements at Ghana Gas, AngloGold Ashanti, Tema Harbour, and other prestigious organizations, where they will apply their skills and contribute to national development.

A Global Thought Leader in Education

Dr. Adutwum’s impact extends beyond Ghana. A respected global thought leader in education transformation, he has participated in high-level discussions at Harvard Graduate School workshops (2021-2024) and delivered keynote addresses at major international forums, including:

  • 2019 Education Reform Session in Kenya
  • 2022 UN Transforming Education Summit, where his statement, “We can’t memorize our way out of poverty,” gained global recognition.

Currently serving as the Ranking Member of the Education Select Committee of Parliament, Dr. Adutwum continues to drive policies that shape the future of education in Africa and beyond.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Adutwum was honored with the Distinguished Citizen Medal by His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on December 30, 2024.
Dr. Adutwum brings deep insights into education policy, leadership, and innovation, inspiring stakeholders to rethink education for the 21st century. His life’s work is a testament to the power of education in transforming lives, empowering youth, and driving national development.

Achievements

Education & Early Career

  • BSc in Land Economy (Real Estate) from KNUST

  • Master’s in Education Management from the University of La Verne

  • PhD in Educational Policy, Planning & Administration from the University of Southern California (USC)

Achievements

Impact in the U.S. Education Sector

  • Founder of New Designs Charter Schools in South Los Angeles, focused on career-based, college-prep curriculum

  • Received a Certificate of Recognition (June 2025) from U.S. Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove for leadership and education reform

Achievements

Political & Educational Leadership in Ghana

  • Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe Constituency since 2016

  • Served on Works & Housing, Poverty Reduction, Employment & Social Welfare committees

  • Deputy Minister of Education (2017–2021): Helped implement Free SHS and the Double-Track System

Achievements

  • Minister for Education (2021–2025):

    - Spearheaded STEM and TVET expansion

    - Launched Accra and Bosomtwe STEM Academies

    - Introduced modern secondary school models with lab facilities

    - Distributed 100,000 computers and retooled 180 SHS laboratories

    - Shifted curriculum focus to critical thinking and creativity

    - Promoted equity and innovation in education infrastructure

Achievements

Continental Roles

  • Elected Patron of the African Curriculum Association (ACA) in 2024

  • Advocated for transformative, innovative curricula across Africa

Achievements

Constituency Initiatives

  • Launched scholarship program in Bosomtwe: Supported 61 engineering and medical students by 2022

  • Aims to support 100 students by end of tenure

Achievements

Awards & Honors

  • 2019: Best Performing Deputy Minister by ASEPA & FAKS Investigative Services
  • Dec 2021: Honored by TUTAG for education reforms
  • Apr 2024: Honored by NUGS for education innovation
  • June 2024: Award at Africa Regional Conference on Education & Skills Development
  • Dec 30, 2024: Order of the Volta (Member class) by President Akufo-Addo
  • June 2025: U.S. Congressional Certificate of Recognition