Enhancing geoscience training in Ghana’s tertiary institutions through geoconservation strategies

Marian Selorm Sapah, Daniel Kwadwo Asiedu, Yvonne Sena Akosua Loh, Bruce Kofi Banoeng-Yakubo

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

Few tertiary institutions in Ghana offer geoscience programs. In addition, geological sites that have been identified and are being used for teaching by universities are being destroyed by both natural processes and human activities, since there are no conservation laws to protect them. This chapter deals with the need for geoconservation as a means of advancing geoscience training in tertiary institutions in Ghana, by identifying, documenting, and managing such geological sites. Ghana has no known geoheritage sites dedicated to geoscience education and training. Even though the Ghana Geological Survey Authority Act, 2016 Act 298 has made provisions via Clause 26, Regulation (e) for geoconservation, no known sites have been identified and developed as geoheritage sites by law. Field observations over the years indicate the deterioration of geological sites used for teaching by universities. How other countries are tackling geoconservation issues is discussed in the literature; these ways could be applied in Ghana. Methods of geoconservation for geoscience training in Ghana are therefore recommended, including inventory, preservation and protection, and management. Outlined also are some geological sites of interest, as recommendations to the Ghana Geological Survey Authority, for geoconservation by law. This will lead to their preservation as natural classrooms for geoeducation in Ghana.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationGeoTourism for Social Sustainability and Ecological Justice in Sub-Saharan Africa
Subtitle of host publicationUnlocking the Potential
PublisherTaylor and Francis
Pages122-146
Number of pages25
ISBN (Electronic)9781040258408
ISBN (Print)9781032706733
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2024
Externally publishedYes

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