Washington, D.C. — Former Minister of Education and current Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, has been officially recognized by the United States Congress for his transformative impact on education, both in the U.S. and Ghana.
The recognition highlights his outstanding contributions to underserved communities in South Los Angeles through the establishment of New Designs Charter Schools.
Dr. Adutwum received a Certificate of Recognition presented by Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove, who represents California’s 37th Congressional District.
The certificate honors his long-standing dedication to education and his efforts in empowering young people through academic opportunity and innovation.
“Your unwavering commitment to New Designs Charter Schools has made a lasting impact on my congressional district. I wish you continued success in all that you do,” the congressional citation read.
Before returning to Ghana to enter public service, Dr. Adutwum spent years in the United States as an educator, where he founded the New Designs Charter Schools network to improve access to quality education for students in low-income communities.
His work in South Los Angeles was marked by a commitment to STEM education, leadership development, and college readiness.
Legacy as Ghana’s Minister of Education
Dr. Adutwum’s passion for educational transformation did not end in the United States. Upon his return to Ghana, he brought his reformist vision to the national stage, serving as Deputy Minister and later as Minister of Education from 2021 to 2025.
During his tenure, he championed key policies aimed at restructuring Ghana’s education system to meet 21st-century standards. Notable among his achievements were:
• The expansion of STEM education across the country, including the establishment of model STEM high schools and curriculum development focused on science and technology.
• Driving reforms in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to better align with labor market needs and industrial development.
• Introducing innovative teaching methods and digital learning platforms to improve teacher delivery and student performance.
• Advocating for equity in education, ensuring marginalized and rural communities had access to quality education infrastructure and resources.
Dr. Adutwum’s dual impact in both Ghana and the United States underscores his lifelong mission to use education as a tool for social mobility and national development.
The recognition from the U.S. Congress not only honors his achievements abroad but also reflects the global resonance of his leadership in education.
The honor adds to a growing list of accolades for Dr. Adutwum, who continues to inspire future generations of educators and policymakers.