The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) has praised the Ghana Publishers Association (GPA) for its role in promoting indigenous publishing and supporting Ghana’s education system over the past five decades.

The commendation was delivered on behalf of the Deputy Director-General for Technical Services at NaCCA, Eric Amoah, during the launch of the GPA’s 50th anniversary celebrations at the Ghana Press Centre on Tuesday, March 10.

Mr Amoah was represented at the event by his secretary, Esther Arthur.

In a message delivered on his behalf, Mr Amoah congratulated the Association for reaching what he described as a remarkable milestone in Ghana’s cultural and educational development.

“It is a great honour to join you today at the launch of the Ghana Publishers Association’s 50th anniversary celebrations,” the statement said.

He noted that half a century of indigenous book publishing reflects not only the longevity of the Association but also the resilience and creativity of Ghanaian publishers who have sustained the industry over the years.

“Fifty years of indigenous book publishing is not just a celebration of longevity—it is a testament to resilience, creativity and the enduring power of storytelling in shaping our nation’s identity,” the message stated.

Mr Amoah emphasised the broader significance of books in society, describing them as powerful instruments for preserving culture and transmitting knowledge.

“Books are more than printed words; they are vessels of culture, knowledge and imagination,” he said.

Through locally produced publications, he explained, Ghana has been able to preserve elements of its cultural heritage, amplify its own voices and ensure that future generations learn from the wisdom of the past while preparing for emerging challenges.

He also referenced the anniversary theme, “50 Years of Indigenous Book Publishing: Our Stories, Our Future,” noting that it underscores the importance of storytelling in shaping the country’s future direction.

According to him, the narratives produced today will influence how the next generation understands Ghana’s identity and aspirations.

“The theme reminds us that the stories we create today will define the Ghana we envision for the future,” he said.

The NaCCA official further highlighted the critical role publishers play in Ghana’s educational framework.

As the statutory body responsible for curriculum development and standards for teaching and learning materials, NaCCA works closely with publishers and authors to ensure that textbooks and other learning resources align with national educational objectives.

“Curriculum is incomplete without quality books that bring learning to life,” Mr Amoah noted.

He stressed that publishers, authors and educators collectively form the backbone of the national book and education value chain, ensuring that learners across the country have access to materials that are relevant, culturally grounded and globally competitive.

While celebrating the achievements of the publishing sector, Mr Amoah also urged stakeholders to consider the emerging opportunities presented by technological change.

He pointed out that the digital age is transforming how books are produced, distributed and accessed.

“The digital age presents new avenues for publishing, distribution and access,” he said.

However, he emphasised that technological innovation should be pursued alongside efforts to preserve the authenticity of Ghana’s indigenous stories and cultural narratives.

According to him, collaboration among publishers, policymakers and educators will be essential for sustaining and expanding the industry in the years ahead.

Mr Amoah reaffirmed NaCCA’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the GPA and other stakeholders to promote literacy and lifelong learning.

He said the Council remains dedicated to building a knowledge-driven society in which books and educational materials play a central role.

“We believe that when our stories are told authentically, they inspire pride, unity and progress,” he said.

The message concluded with a tribute to the pioneers who laid the foundation for indigenous publishing in Ghana.

Mr Amoah also commended the current leadership of the Ghana Publishers Association for continuing the work of earlier generations and sustaining the growth of the industry.

“On this special occasion, I salute the pioneers who laid the foundation of indigenous publishing in Ghana and commend the current leadership of the GPA for carrying the torch forward,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the next 50 years will bring stronger collaboration, greater achievements and a more vibrant publishing industry capable of shaping minds and transforming lives across the country.

The launch event brought together publishers, authors, educators and policymakers to celebrate the contributions of indigenous publishing to Ghana’s education system, cultural heritage and national development.