World Teachers’ Day: A Sad Day for Ghanaian Teachers – Convener
Kojo Adarkwa, the convener of a teachers’ group known as the Forum, has described World International Teachers’ Day as a day of sorrow rather than celebration for many educators in Ghana. He pointed out that most teacher associations were noticeably absent from the recent commemoration held in the Western Region.
“The GNAT general secretary didn’t attend because the problems we have are numerous. We won’t go and smile with them when we know things are not well. The joy that comes with the celebration of Teachers’ Day wasn’t there due to the issues we face in our profession,” Kojo remarked in an interview on Opemsuo Radio’s Nkwantannanso with Kofi Boakye on October 5.
He emphasized that the discontent among teachers in Ghana goes beyond mere dissatisfaction with the government’s treatment; they are grappling with hunger. He expressed profound disappointment with the government’s actions, highlighting the perceived unfair treatment that teachers have endured.
Kojo further noted that the government has disregarded the teachers’ protests regarding the GHC150 deduction from their salaries for continuous professional development.
Adding to their frustration, the government has failed to fulfill its promise of a 20% allowance for teachers serving in underserved areas.
As teachers’ concerns remain unaddressed, their frustration and discontent continue to mount, casting a shadow over World Teachers’ Day in Ghana.
Story by Adwoa S. Danso
