President Mahama Engages Teacher Unions in High-Level Dialogue on Education Reform

Former President John Dramani Mahama has held a strategic engagement with leadership from the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) and the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) to discuss critical reforms and priorities within Ghana’s education sector.

The meeting, which forms part of Mr. Mahama’s broader consultations ahead of the 2024 elections, focused on revitalizing the teaching profession, restoring key support systems in schools, and enhancing teacher welfare and infrastructure.

During the engagement, the former president emphasized the vital role teachers play in national development and reiterated his commitment to empowering educators through policies rooted in inclusivity and dialogue.

“Teachers must not be gagged. They are essential voices in shaping a progressive and fair education system,” Mahama stated during the meeting, which was warmly received by members of both unions.

A key highlight of the discussion was Mahama’s call for the restoration of Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs), which he described as essential for improving accountability and community participation in basic education.

“The PTAs serve as a vital bridge between schools and communities. Under my administration, we will reintroduce and strengthen them to ensure greater transparency and responsibility,” he noted.

• Mahama also outlined parts of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s education policy, including:
• Expansion of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)
• Support for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programs
• Improved conditions of service for teachers, including accommodation, pension security, and professional development
• Increased investment in school infrastructure and learning resources

The teacher unions, in response, presented a list of concerns ranging from delays in salary adjustments to the need for clear career progression pathways and enhanced protection for teachers working in rural and underserved areas.

Photos from the event show Mahama in productive dialogue with union executives, posing with leadership teams, and listening attentively to the lived experiences of Ghana’s educators.

This engagement reflects a broader trend of political leaders consulting key stakeholders as education continues to take center stage in national discourse.

As Ghana approaches the next general election, education is expected to remain a top campaign issue, with teacher welfare and policy coherence high on the agenda.