Stephen Acquah is a Research Officer at ESSA, where he supports the Early Childhood Development (ECD) project to strengthen research capacity and collaboration among Africa-based researchers and policymakers. He leads work to enhance the visibility and accessibility of ECD evidence produced by scholars across sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to ESSA’s mission to improve education through locally generated research.

Stephen’s roles include mapping the regional ECD research landscape, identifying emerging research priorities, and supporting the strategic dissemination of research through publications, reports, blogs, and convenings. He also leads a systematic literature review under the Localising Education Research in Africa for Equity and Inclusion project, advancing understanding of how African-led research can drive more equitable and inclusive education systems.

Before joining ESSA, Stephen worked at Alpha Virtual Academy, where he developed specialised learning materials for teachers and learners in Ghana’s basic education system. He previously served as a teaching assistant at the University of Education, Winneba.

Stephen holds a bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Education, Winneba, and an MPhil in Curriculum and Teaching from the University of Cape Coast.