Born on May 23, 1968, NAPO, also known as Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, is a devoted family man. His native Ghanaian area, the Ashanti, is renowned for both its rich cultural legacy and its substantial influence on the country’s political climate.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh showed a strong intellectual bent at a young age, pursuing his early schooling in Ghana.
His undergraduate studies in Human Biology and later his medical degree were completed at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
Here’s all you need to know about Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh
He added a Master of Science degree to his credentials and continued his quest of academic greatness by specializing in occupational medicine at the University of London. He received a postgraduate certificate in public health from the University of Leeds, which helped him further expand his skills.
Before venturing into the political arena, Dr. Prempeh practiced as a medical doctor, gaining extensive experience in both clinical and public health sectors.
His medical background provided him with a solid foundation to understand and address public health issues, which later influenced his policy-making decisions.
Political Career
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh entered politics as a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). His political journey began with his election as the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South in 2008, a position he has successfully retained in subsequent elections (2012, 2016, and 2020).
Minister of Education (2017-2021): In 2017, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo appointed Dr. Prempeh as the Minister of Education. During his tenure, he spearheaded several key initiatives aimed at transforming Ghana’s educational landscape.
One of his most notable achievements was the implementation of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which provided free education to all SHS students in the country.
This policy significantly increased access to secondary education and reduced the financial burden on many Ghanaian families.
Under his leadership, the Ministry of Education also introduced various reforms to improve the quality of education, including curriculum changes and teacher professional development programs.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s tenure was marked by his commitment to improving educational infrastructure and promoting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.
Minister of Energy (2021-Present): In 2021, Dr. Prempeh was appointed as the Minister of Energy. In this role, he has been responsible for overseeing Ghana’s energy sector, which includes managing the country’s electricity supply, promoting renewable energy sources, and addressing challenges related to energy infrastructure and access.
His tenure has focused on ensuring a stable and reliable energy supply to support the country’s economic growth and development.
Key Achievements
Free SHS Policy: As Minister of Education, Dr. Prempeh played a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the Free SHS policy, which has had a profound impact on Ghana’s education system.
Educational Reforms: He introduced significant reforms aimed at improving the quality of education, including curriculum development and teacher training initiatives.
Energy Sector Leadership: As the current Minister of Energy, Dr. Prempeh has been instrumental in addressing issues related to energy supply and infrastructure, promoting renewable energy, and ensuring a stable power supply for the country.
Personal Attributes
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh is known for his dedication, strategic vision, and ability to implement impactful policies.
His medical background and experience in public health have informed his approach to addressing the country’s educational and energy challenges.
He is respected for his leadership skills, commitment to public service, and ability to engage with various stakeholders to achieve common goals.
Controversies
Throughout his political career, Dr. Prempeh has faced criticism and controversy, particularly regarding some of his public statements and decisions. However, he remains a significant figure in Ghanaian politics, with a strong support base within the NPP and among his constituents in Manhyia South.
Future Prospects
As Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s running mate for the 2024 general elections, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s political career continues to ascend. His selection is seen as a strategic move to leverage his experience and achievements in education and energy, positioning him as a key player in the NPP’s bid to retain power.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s contributions to Ghana’s education and energy sectors, coupled with his medical expertise and political acumen, make him a prominent and influential figure in the country’s political landscape. His commitment to public service and policy implementation continues to shape his legacy as a dedicated and effective leader
