Former Dudley bricklayer who has become an African 'chief' of education
-
Loading... - SUTH INTHUVARMAN
- 30 Apr 2020
- 611 Views
- 0 Like
- 0 Comment
He was once a humble bricklayer - but now Black Country builder David Edwards has become an African ‘chief’.
The builder began his career as a brickie before climbing the ladder to become a professor in construction at Birmingham City University.
And he is now set to shape the future of education in Africa after being bestowed with the title of the Chief for Educational Development in Ghana.
The Dudley academic has been working tirelessly to help children in the developing country have access to education and has been a visiting lecturer at Ghana’s Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology since 2009.
He will now play a pivotal role in Ghana’s education system, and was even presented with a crown at a special ceremony at the Royal Palace in Aaskyiri.
While he is not a tribal chief, his new title was given to him by the Ashanti Kingdom - formed in 1695 by African King Osei Tutu.
The Ashanti people used their military power and wealth to create an empire that stretched from central Ghana to the Ivory Coast.
Prof Edwards, who will juggle his job in Ghana with being lead researcher in construction and civil engineering at BCU, said he was “honoured and privileged” to take on the role.
“Ghana is the shining star of Africa, its progress in primary education should be seen as a massive beacon of hope and inspiration for all Africans,” said Prof Edwards. “However, more needs to be done to raise the importance of further and higher education.
“Two thirds of Ghanaian’s are farmers – there is so much more we could be doing with this talent to help move the country forward.
“I hope to use my time in Ghana to begin working with younger children at nursery, primary and secondary levels to help guide their further learning.
“Eventually I would like to see all locals have a fair shot at a university education and the opportunity to transform their lives.”
Since Ghana’s education plan was launched in 2007, it has been heralded as a role model for many African countries due to its access to free schooling.
Almost 90 per cent of Ghanaian children are now in school, compared with 64 per cent in Nigeria and 72 per cent in Pakistan.
Nana Mensa Bonsu, a professor at Kwame Nkrumah University, said: “Professor Edwards has consistently demonstrated great leadership and commitment to inspire staff and students.
“He has always given his time generously and tirelessly and has assisted colleagues to improve upon their personal development and academic profile.
“Such qualities are rare and I have every faith that David will continue to bring his international standards into his role as Chief for Educational Development.”
