Matthew Opoku Prempeh: A Legacy of Dedication and Leadership

Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO, has carved a remarkable path in Ghanaian politics and public service. From his early days as a medical doctor to his influential roles in government, he has consistently demonstrated dedication, intelligence, and an unwavering commitment to national development.

Born on May 23, 1968, in Kumasi, NAPO’s educational journey was rooted in excellence. He studied Human Biology and Medicine at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), later furthering his education in Clinical Epidemiology and Leadership at prestigious institutions like the Netherlands Institute of Health Sciences and Harvard University. His background as a medical doctor, with postgraduate training in surgery in the UK, laid a foundation for his analytical and problem-solving approach in politics.

NAPO transitioned into politics with the same passion he had for medicine. He was elected as the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South in 2008 and remained a strong voice in Ghana’s legislature for several terms. As a parliamentarian, he was an advocate for policy reforms, particularly in education and infrastructure, making significant contributions to the nation’s governance.

Appointed Minister of Education in 2017, NAPO led one of the most impactful reforms in Ghana’s education sector. Under his leadership, the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy was successfully implemented, providing thousands of Ghanaian students with access to quality secondary education. His tenure also saw improvements in vocational and technical education, as well as investments in school infrastructure. His dedication to shaping the future of Ghana through education earned him respect and admiration across the nation

In 2021, he was appointed Minister of Energy, where he played a crucial role in stabilizing Ghana’s energy supply. He worked tirelessly to ensure efficient energy distribution and foster investment in the sector. His leadership in this field was instrumental in maintaining economic growth and industrial development.

In July 2024, NAPO reached another milestone when he was selected as the Vice Presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) alongside Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. His nomination was widely celebrated as a recognition of his dedication and service to the nation. His leadership qualities, experience, and passion for development made him a strong candidate to help steer Ghana towards a prosperous future.

Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has received multiple honorary doctorate degrees from renowned Ghanaian universities, recognizing his impact on education, governance, and national development. His alma mater, Prempeh College, even named a dormitory block in his honor, a testament to his enduring legacy.

NAPO’s journey from medicine to politics is a story of dedication and selflessness. His influence in education and energy, coupled with his vision for national development, has made him one of the most respected leaders in Ghana. As he embarks on the next chapter of his career as a Vice Presidential candidate, his legacy of leadership and service continues to inspire many.

Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh is not just a politician—he is a nation-builder whose contributions will be remembered for generations to come.