A new education initiative funded by the Japanese government is helping Ghanaian pupils strengthen their mathematics skills and develop independent learning habits through technology and innovation.

The initiative uses KUMON Connect, a tablet-based learning software that enables pupils to study mathematics at their own pace while nurturing focus, discipline and time management, which are key skills for lifelong learning.

The pilot project, launched in September 2025, was funded by Edu-Port Japan, locally managed by Sozo Global Ministry and remotely operated by KUMON Institute of Education, a private Japanese education company.

In Ghana, it is being piloted at Ebenezer Baptist Christian School (EBCS) in Accra and targets pupils in Basic Three, a stage identified globally as key in a child’s academic development.

Progress of work

During a working visit to EBCS, the Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, Hiroshi Yoshimoto, expressed satisfaction at the progress of the pilot project.

He said it was fulfilling to see that both teachers and pupils were responding positively to the new learning method.

“KUMON has a good record across the world, including Africa.

It is highly effective because it focuses on self-learning.

It not only improves academic skills but also develops non-cognitive skills, which lay a foundation for lifelong learning,” he said.

The ambassador added that the fast rate at which pupils and teachers had adapted to the KUMON learning style was indicative of their willingness to leverage innovation for enhanced learning outcomes.

“I saw a lot of enthusiasm among both teachers and students. It’s impressive how well they are running this method,” he said, adding that discussions would continue with Japan’s Ministry of Education and KUMON on the possibility of extending the initiative beyond the pilot phase.

Key features

A Board Member of EBCS and National Coordinator of the KUMON Project through Sozo Global Ministry, Dr Joseph Quarshie, said, unlike traditional learning, where all students moved at the pace of the brightest, the KUMON method allowed each child to progress individually.

He explained that students typically spent about 30 minutes daily on worksheets set by facilitators, and their progress was tracked through the software based on both speed and accuracy, while teachers provided feedback and additional support where needed.

The Head of the Primary School and KUMON Lead at EBCS, Eric Kofi Boafo, noted that the introduction of the KUMON Connect software had changed how pupils approached mathematics.

“The pupils are very happy about it, and even their siblings wish it were extended to their classes.

We’ve seen students who used to rely on finger-counting now solving problems mentally. The transformation has been encouraging,” he added.

For Nathaniel Aseda Kwasi Asare, a Basic Three learner participating in the pilot, the KUMON method had made mathematics more enjoyable.

“It is fun, and we learn a lot. I like KUMON time because it is fun and easy. I don’t want them to stop,” he said.

The KUMON learning method marks the first step in introducing the Japanese-style self-learning approach to Ghana’s education system.

If the pilot proves successful, the programme could be expanded to more schools, particularly within the public sector.

The KUMON method is an effective tool in supporting the government’s promotion of STEM education.