Mr. Louis Abban, Ekumfi TV, Others to be Awarded on World Teachers’ Day.

Mr. Louis Abban

Ekumfi District Education Director Announces Awardees for Teachers' Awards Day Ceremony. In anticipation of World Teachers' Day on October 5, 2023, the District Education Director of Ekumfi in the Central Region of Ghana, Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom, has unveiled the names of distinguished individuals set to receive awards at the Teachers' Awards Day Ceremony. This prestigious event will take place at the Ekumfi Essarkyir Community Centre and will recognize the exceptional dedication and contributions of educators and community leaders to the Ekumfi District.

Mr. Hammond, CEO - Ekumfi TV

Among the notable honourees is Mr. Louis Abban, Headteacher of Egyankwaa/Owuya D/A Basic School, who has served diligently in the teaching profession for an impressive thirty-seven (37) years in Ekumfi District. Mr. Abban is due for retirement in January 2024. 

Another luminary on the list is Mr. Daniel Hammond, the CEO of Ekumfi TV, who has passionately captured the vibrant spirit of the Ekumfi District for the past three years without compensation. Through his efforts, the world has gained insight into the educational endeavours and cultural richness of the Ekumfi District.

Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom

Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom was in a live radio interview with Papa Willie, a morning show host on Coastal FM (94.9Mhz) in Mankessim together with Mr. Bentsiefi Kofi Biney (Officer incharge of Finance and Administration, Ekumfi District) and the Chairman of the Awards’ Committee and Mr. Samuel Baffoe Aikins (PRO, Ekumfi District). Mr. Isaac Oscar Odoom, the District Education Director, shared his motivation for organizing the Teachers' Awards Day Ceremony, citing the principle of labour efficiency. "One of the factors is to motivate labour," he emphasized. He also expressed his deep appreciation for educators like Mr. Louis Abban, who have dedicated their lives to the noble profession without receiving the recognition they deserve. “I almost cried when I realized Mr. Louis has spent these number of years and yet no recognition or appreciation,” he said in Fante.

This event aims to acknowledge teachers who have willingly accepted postings to Hard-to-Reach Communities, as well as those who have made significant contributions to various education levels, including KG, Lower Primary, Upper Primary, JHS, Headteachers, and Retirees. Both individuals and groups that have made outstanding contributions to education in Ekumfi District will also be celebrated, with a total of 63 awards to be presented.

Mr. Samuel Baffoe Aikins, the PRO of Ekumfi District, acknowledged the challenges in organizing such events due to a lack of monetary support. Mr. Odoom also raised concerns about the issue of teacher accommodation, which poses a significant challenge to teacher retention in the district. “It is very disheartening that, elsewhere in other districts, it is facilitated by the Assembly and Member of Parliament (MP) but in Ekumfi, it is different,” he added.

Despite these challenges, the event has garnered support from various individuals and groups, including Nana Otu Essuon, Mr. Stephen Quansah, Frimps Oil, Mrs. Bernice Asare of Standard Assessment Solutions (SAS), and the Executives of the Conference of Heads of Basic Schools (COHBS) in Ekumfi.

Each awardee will receive a citation and bedecked with a medal in recognition of their outstanding contributions to education and community development. Mr. Bentsiefi Kofi Biney, Chairman for the Awards’ Committee, praised Mr. Odoom for his visionary leadership in conceiving and organizing this noteworthy event.

The Teachers' Awards Day Ceremony, featuring Mr. Louis Abban, Mr. Daniel Hammond, and other outstanding individuals, promises to be a highlight of the celebration of World Teachers' Day in Ekumfi District.

Attakwaa T. I. Ahmadiyya Basic School Observes "My First Day at School" to Kick off the 2023/24 Academic Year

A Section of Recipients at the event

Attakwaa T. I. Ahmadiyya Basic School in the Ekumfi District marked a significant moment today as they celebrated "My First Day at School." This heartfelt event, held on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, was a special occasion for the school's newest pupils embarking on their educational journey for the academic year 2023/24.

"My First Day at School" serves as a rite of passage for both Kindergarten and Basic 1 students. For KG graduates, it signifies their transition to the more formal education environment of Basic 1. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and excitement as the entire student body gathered on the school's ceremonial grounds to witness this important milestone.

Teachers presenting items to pupils

During the event, Miss Lily Aboagye and Miss Sarah Mensah, representing the dedicated teachers of Attakwaa T. I. Ahmadiyya Basic School, presented a selection of essential items to the eager pupils. These thoughtful gifts included Exercise Books, Pencils, Erasers, and Biscuits. The students responded with resounding applause and enthusiasm, appreciating the generosity of their teachers.

Capturing the memorable moments for posterity, Mr. Daniel Hammond from Ekumfi TV was on hand to take photographs of the event.

The Headteacher of the school, Mr. Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie, took the opportunity to address the pupils, offering words of wisdom and guidance. He emphasized the importance of regular attendance and punctuality, urging students to take their academic responsibilities seriously as they embark on this new chapter of their educational journey.

Recipients in a group photo with teachers

The highlight of the celebration was the distribution of these essential items to eleven (11) fortunate pupils. This act of kindness is expected to inspire and motivate the recipients to attend school regularly and take their studies seriously, setting a positive example for their peers.

As Attakwaa T. I. Ahmadiyya Basic School observes "My First Day at School," there is an air of excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead in the academic year. The school community eagerly awaits the arrival of more new entrants, who will undoubtedly benefit from the warm and nurturing educational environment the school provides.

Revitalizing Education in Ghana: The Imperative of Reversing the Teacher Shortage

File Photo

As we commemorate World Teachers' Day on Thursday, October 5, 2023, the theme, "The teachers we need for the education we want: The global imperative to reverse the teacher shortage," resonates profoundly in the Ghanaian context. This theme serves as a poignant reminder of the critical role that educators play in shaping the future of our nation.

Ghana has made commendable progress in its educational journey. Recent changes in the curriculum and the active role of the National Teaching Council (NTC) are notable steps towards improving the quality of education in the country. However, beneath these positive developments lie persistent challenges that need urgent attention.

Delay in Textbook Supply: Timely access to quality educational materials is essential for effective teaching and learning. Delays in textbook supply hinder educational progress.

Sanitation and Infrastructure Conditions: Many schools in Ghana still lack proper infrastructure and sanitation facilities. Creating safe and conducive learning environments should be a top priority.

Lack of Resources: Adequate teaching resources, including textbooks, teaching aids, and materials, are vital for effective instruction. The scarcity of these resources can impede the learning process.

Examination Malpractices: The prevalence of examination malpractices threatens the credibility of our education system. We must address this issue to ensure that the qualifications earned by graduates reflect their actual capabilities.

To reverse the teacher shortage and ensure the education we desire, we must identify the qualities and competencies required of teachers in Ghana. Our educators should embody subject expertise, pedagogical skills, adaptability to modern teaching methods, and a commitment to fostering critical thinking and creativity among students.

Professionalism is the cornerstone of effective teaching. Teachers in Ghana should demonstrate unwavering dedication to their students' growth, uphold ethical standards, engage in continuous professional development, and foster safe and inclusive learning environments.

Our education system should strike a balance between bookish/liberal and hands-on approaches. While theoretical knowledge is crucial, practical skills are equally essential. A well-rounded curriculum that blends theory with real-world applications prepares students for the complex challenges of the 21st century.

To attract the best talent to the teaching profession, Ghana must invest in competitive salaries and benefits for educators. Furthermore, enhancing the status of teachers through recognition, career development opportunities, and a supportive working environment is essential.

From kindergarten to tertiary education, Ghana must invest in modern and well-equipped educational facilities. Innovative pedagogies and technologies should be incorporated into teacher training programs, and adequate teaching resources must be provided.

As a signatory to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) on inclusive and equitable quality education, Ghana must align its educational policies and actions with this global agenda. This commitment ensures that no Ghanaian is left behind in the pursuit of quality education.

The Ghanaian constitution recognizes education as a fundamental human right and places a duty on the state to provide educational opportunities. This constitutional commitment should guide policymaking and resource allocation to meet the educational needs of all Ghanaians.

As we celebrate World Teachers' Day in Ghana this year, let it be more than a routine event. It should serve as a clarion call to action. The teacher shortage crisis is a pressing issue, and addressing it requires collaborative efforts from the government, civil society, and the private sector. Concrete steps should be taken to attract and retain qualified teachers, improve educational infrastructure, and align education policies with global and national aspirations.

Reversing the teacher shortage in Ghana is not just a noble goal; it's an imperative for achieving the quality education we desire. Let this World Teachers' Day be a catalyst for change, a day when we commit to investing in our teachers and, by extension, in the future of our nation.

(c) ShynMediaGh 2023