Retired Educationist Urges Better Pay, Housing, and Support for Teachers

Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom (Rtd), Fmr Director, Ekumfi District Education Directorate

The Former District Director of Education for Ekumfi, Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom (Rtd), has called for improved remuneration, investment in teacher housing, enhanced professional development, and a renewed commitment from the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) and government to the welfare of their members.

He made the call while delivering the keynote address at the 7th Quadrennial (54th) Municipal Delegates’ Conference of GNAT in the Mfantseman Municipality, held under the theme “Ghana Education Service @ 50: Achievements, Challenges and the Way Forward.”

Mr. Oscar Odoom acknowledged some progress made by the Ghana Education Service (GES) over the past five decades, including increased access to education and curriculum reforms. However, he said these achievements are being undermined by persistent challenges.

Section of Delegates at the Conference

“Teacher motivation is at its lowest,” he stressed, citing low salaries, lack of decent accommodation, poor working conditions, and overcrowded classrooms. He expressed concern over the growing perception among teachers that GNAT is no longer responsive to their needs.

He warned that if members were given the option, many might choose to opt out of the union—a situation he believes should trigger urgent reforms and a renewed focus by GNAT on its core mission.

Hon. Eric Stanley Acquah, MCE - Mfantseman Municipal Assembly

Taking his turn at the event, the Municipal Chief Executive for the Mfantseman Municipal Assembly, Hon. Eric Stanley Acquah, popularly known as Mfantseman KK, also appealed to the government to turn its attention to the plight of teachers.

“Teachers’ reward is in heaven—that has been the narrative—but we need it here on earth too,” he emphasized, urging for improved conditions of service to match the crucial role educators play in national development.

Guests in a group photograph with Municipal Executives

Mr. Odoom concluded by calling on all stakeholders to take bold and deliberate steps to restore dignity and morale among teachers, which he said is key to sustaining the progress of education in Ghana.

By Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie

Central Regional Education Officer Urges for Transformative Education on World Teachers' Day

Mr. B. K. Asare

Mr. Benjamin Kwasi Asare, the Central Regional Planning and Monitoring Officer for the Ghana Education Service, delivered a compelling message during the 2nd Ekumfi Education District Awards' Day Ceremony held on Thursday, October 5, 2023. The event coincided with World Teachers' Day, a global celebration of outstanding educators.

In his address on behalf of the Central Regional Director of Education, Mr. Emmanuel Essuman, Mr. Asare commended teachers and award recipients and called upon them, along with education stakeholders, to become catalysts for positive change in the world. He emphasized that the best teachers are those who inspire students to seek answers themselves, highlighting the pivotal role of educators in shaping future generations.

Mr. Armah, an awardee from Dunkwa Abontsen D/A Basic School

Acknowledging the challenges faced by teachers and schools, Mr. Asare drew attention to issues such as the deplorable condition of school buildings, citing the Dunkwa Abontsen D/A Basic School within the Ekumfi District as an example. He expressed his admiration for an award recipient from this school. Throughout his address, he emphasized the transformative potential of education, stating, "one book, one pen, one child can change the world."  

Dignitaries in a group photo with awardees

The event's centerpiece was the recognition of 63 dedicated teachers from various levels of education, ranging from Kindergarten to Senior High School, as well as Headteachers and Retirees. The celebration also honoured individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to improving education within the district. Distinguished guests included Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom (host), Traditional Leaders, Clergy, Hon. Ebenezer Kwesi Monney (DCE for Ekumfi), and his Coordinating Director, Miss. Sabina Otoo (District Director, Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam) and other District Directors of Education. 

Mr. Asare's passionate call for transformative education resonated strongly on World Teachers' Day, underscoring the crucial role that educators play in shaping the future and inspiring positive change in society.

GNAT - Mankessim Local Celebrates World Teachers' Day with Fun Games

Players in contest for ball

The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) marked World Teachers' Day in grand style by organizing a series of fun-filled games for its members in the Mankessim Local chapter. The event took place at Mankessim School Kessim on October 5, 2023, revolving around the theme, "The teachers we need for the education we want: The global imperative to reverse the teacher shortage."

Mr. Christopher F. Aidoo

Mr. Christopher Francis Aidoo, the Local Secretary, extended warm congratulations to teachers for their unwavering dedication and selfless service to education. He encouraged them to use this day as an opportunity for reflection on their achievements. Mr. Aidoo did, however, express concerns about the low turnout of teachers at the event.

The celebration featured a variety of enjoyable activities, including Volleyball, Cards, Ludo, and Draughts, which brought teachers together in a spirit of camaraderie.

Mr. Mbea Aidoo

Mr. Charles Collins Mbea Aidoo, the Municipal Secretary for GNAT in Mfantseman, commended teachers for their tireless efforts throughout the year and encouraged them to maintain a positive and determined approach to their responsibilities. 

Mr. Padmore Arthur

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Padmore Arthur, the Municipal Chairman for GNAT in Mfantseman, outlined three essential principles for teachers: "inform, form, and transform." He stressed the importance of teachers possessing a strong grasp of their subject matter to effectively inform their students, molding learners to improve their current situations, and inspiring them to become agents of change. Mr. Arthur emphasized that by adhering to these principles, teachers would become the educators the world needs.

He concluded by stating that education should be purposeful and fit for its intended goals.

The celebration saw teachers actively participating in the games, accompanied by lively dancing and the enjoyment of locally prepared meals.

The GNAT - Mankessim Local chapter commemorated World Teachers' Day with enthusiasm, emphasizing the critical role teachers play in shaping the future of education and society at large.