Local Governance Bill 2025 on the Horizon - Minister

Graduation Ceremony Marks Progress in Local Governance Education

One hundred and forty students have successfully graduated from the Institute of Local Government Studies (ILGS) during its 7th Congregation. These graduates received certificates in various Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MSc) programs, reflecting the institution's commitment to advancing knowledge in local governance and related fields.

The programs offered include MA in Local Government Administration and Organisation, as well as MSc in Local Government Financial Management, Development Management, Environmental Science, Policy and Management, and Local Economic Development. These disciplines are crucial for equipping professionals with the skills needed to manage and improve local governance systems effectively.

The graduation ceremony took place at the ILGS Accra campus in Ogbojo on Saturday. The event was themed “Beyond the Fund Transfer: Exploring the Prerequisites for Improved Financial Accountability and Local Development in Ghana.” This theme emphasized the importance of financial accountability and effective resource management in driving local development.

During the ceremony, the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Mr Ahmed Ibrahim, delivered the keynote address. He highlighted that the success of the government’s decentralisation program depends on the capacity of local government functionaries and staff to perform their duties effectively. He praised the ILGS for its role in enhancing these programs through research and specialized training initiatives aimed at staff and government officials at the local level.

Mr Ibrahim also announced that the process to transform ILGS into a university is progressing. He mentioned that he is collaborating with the Minister of Education, Mr Haruna Iddrisu, to make this transition a reality. He assured that the University of Local Governance Development Bill 2025 will soon be presented to Parliament after receiving cabinet approval for its enactment into law.

In addition, the minister emphasized the importance of training chiefs through the programs organized by ILGS. He noted that chiefs play a significant role in the local governance system and contribute to the overall development of the country. He urged Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to use the funds allocated through the District Assemblies’ Common Fund (DACF) effectively for projects within their jurisdictions.

“We will monitor strict compliance to ensure accountability of the funds released,” Mr Ibrahim stated. He encouraged the graduands to apply the knowledge and skills they gained to transform the local governance system in the country.

Professor Lord Mensah, Head of the Office of Local Government Service, identified several challenges facing the country’s local governance system. These include lack of detailed planning and budgeting, weak internal controls, poor risk identification and documentation, low enforcement of sanctions, and limited transparency and citizen engagement.

To tackle these issues, Prof. Mensah stressed the need for continuous capacity building for all local government actors. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening the Regional Coordinating Councils (RCCs) across the country and standardizing infrastructure projects.

Prof. Mensah further revealed that he has developed a capacity training framework that covers all 64 job classes within the MMDAs. This initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of local government workers and improve the efficiency of governance structures.

The Director of ILGS, Prof. Nicholas Awortwi, shared that the institute achieved more than 80% of its planned targets under the 2020-2024 Strategic Plan, which was completed last year. This achievement highlights the institution’s progress in delivering quality education and training to local government professionals.

The graduation ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of the students but also underscored the critical role of education and training in strengthening local governance systems. As the ILGS continues to evolve and expand its programs, it remains a key player in shaping the future of governance in the region.