More than 42,000 teachers in Ghana must get professional licences. The National Teaching Council (NTC) has issued a strict deadline. Teachers without the required certification face sanctions. This deadline applies to both basic and senior high school educators.
The NTC is encouraging these teachers to join an ongoing fast-track programme. This programme is designed to help them gain professional qualifications. It is a final chance to legalise their teaching status. Francis Addai, Director for Licensing and Registration at NTC, stated the council's goal. He wants all enrolled teachers to finish the programme by December 2026. The first group completes in August. A second group starts in September and finishes in December.
Teachers who do not secure a licence will face consequences. Mr. Addai warned they might not be allowed to teach. The NTC will inform the employer, the Ghana Education Service (GES). The GES will then decide on their employment. Teachers need a licence to practise. They cannot continue teaching as non-professionals.
A recent survey by the NTC revealed the scale of the problem. It found about 12,279 unqualified teachers in senior high schools. An additional 30,000-plus are in basic schools. The Ashanti Region has the most teachers without licences. It recorded over 3,000 such educators. Greater Accra and the Eastern Region also have high numbers.
To fix this, the NTC partnered with the Ministry of Education. Five universities are also involved. They offer an 18-week fast-track Postgraduate Diploma in Education. This programme helps graduate teachers get certified. Participating universities include University of Cape Coast and University of Education, Winneba. Others are University for Development Studies, Valley View University, and University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development.
The cost of this programme is subsidised. It is GHS 5,000 for two semesters. This makes it more affordable for teachers nationwide. The first batch of around 1,400 teachers will finish in August. Registration for the next cohort opens in June. Classes for that group start in September.
This move by the NTC is a significant step for Ghana's education sector. It aims to improve teaching standards. Better qualified teachers can lead to improved student outcomes. The GES relies on these professional standards for quality education delivery. This policy directly impacts public finance through the demand for teacher training and potential employment changes.
The Ministry of Education supports this initiative. It is part of a larger plan to professionalise teaching in Ghana. The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has previously expressed support for professional standards. This might also affect teacher unions and their negotiations. The market for teacher training services is also seeing increased activity.
The economic impact is notable. Failed teachers could lead to job losses. This affects household incomes. Training costs represent a financial commitment for individuals. The government's investment in the programme is also a factor.