Cape Coast, Ghana – February 27, 2025 – The Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (IEPA) has held a ceremony to launch its 50th Anniversary, a significant milestone for the institution and a testament to its enduring commitment to advancing education in Ghana and the West African sub-region.

Speaking to the press, Prof. Michael Boakye-Yiadom, Director-General of the Institute, informed that, IEPA, established in 1975 with the support of UNESCO and UNDP, has played a pivotal role in developing educational leaders, conducting impactful research, and providing expert consultancy services to governments and institutions. This year also marks the 5th anniversary of IEPA's designation as a UNESCO Category II Centre of Excellence, further solidifying its position as a leading institution in the field of education.

The 50th Anniversary is being celebrated under the theme "IEPA@50: Innovating for Educational Impact and Excellence." This theme reflects IEPA's dedication to fostering innovation, driving impactful research, and sustaining excellence in educational planning and administration.

Anniversary Celebration Highlights:

• International Conference: A high-level international conference will take place in August bringing together renowned scholars, policymakers, and practitioners.
   
• Commemorative Book: A publication documenting IEPA's 50-year journey, showcasing its achievements, contributions, and impact on the education sector will be published.
   
• Special Edition of the Journal of Educational Management: A dedicated issue featuring cutting-edge research and insights on educational leadership and innovation.
   
• Outreach Activities: A series of outreach programmes and activities across the West African sub-region, promoting knowledge sharing, collaboration, and capacity building in education is planned.

Unveiling the anniversary logo and theme, the Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast who was the Keynote  speaker, Prof.Denis Worlanyo Aheto, congratulated the Institute for the trail blazing work it has done in the educational sphere, calling it a true partner of governments in educational research, planning and administration since its inception. Already, its UNESCO status and expanded mandate has been felt in the subregion,he added. He expressed the hope that this milestone will be an opportunity for the Institute to take stock and move forward with renewed impetus.

IEPA's Mandate and Impact:

IEPA's mandate as a UNESCO Category II Centre of Excellence is to:

• Build and strengthen the capacity of educational planners, administrators, and leaders in the West African sub-region.
   
• Support education ministries in the sub-region to undertake sector-wide planning, policy development, and implementation.
   
• Undertake cutting-edge research, consultancy, and promote innovation in education service delivery.
   
• Create a platform for discussion of topical issues in education and provide policy advice to Ministries of Education.

IEPA's contributions to education in Ghana and the sub-region are far-reaching. The Institute has trained thousands of educational leaders, conducted impactful research on critical education issues, and provided expert consultancy services to governments and institutions. IEPA's work has been instrumental in shaping education policies and practices, leading to improved educational outcomes for countless students.

Looking Ahead:

As IEPA embarks on its next chapter, the Institute remains committed to its mission of advancing education in Ghana and the West African sub-region. The 50th Anniversary celebrations provide an opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate achievements, and envision a future where education continues to be a driving force for sustainable development and social progress. Follow IEPA’s work through their website https://iepa.ucc.edu.gh/ and various social media platforms.