The National Teaching Council (NTC) is making more than 42,000 teachers qualified to teach through a new training course. This programme is designed to be fast. It targets teachers in basic and senior high schools. Many of these educators lack the necessary professional qualifications. This lack of certification has been identified as a significant issue in Ghana's education system.
The NTC estimates that 12,279 teachers in senior high schools are currently teaching without professional licences. Additionally, over 30,000 teachers in basic schools also lack these legal credentials. Francis Addai, Director in charge of Licensing and Registration at the NTC, revealed these numbers. He spoke after a recent survey by the Council across the country. The initiative addresses a critical need for qualified educators. It aims to improve the quality of education delivered to students nationwide.
This move by the NTC is part of a broader effort to professionalise the teaching service in Ghana. Professional certification is a legal requirement for all teachers. It ensures a standard level of competence and pedagogical understanding. Ghana has been working to strengthen its education sector. Prior efforts have focused on curriculum development and infrastructure. This programme targets the human capital component directly. It reflects a commitment to ensuring that those leading classrooms meet rigorous standards.
The NTC is collaborating with five prominent Ghanaian universities. These include the University of Cape Coast and the University of Education, Winneba. The University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Valley View University, and the University for Development Studies are also partners. These institutions will deliver a fast-track Postgraduate Diploma in Education. This course is specifically designed for graduate teachers who need professional licensing. Francis Addai highlighted that the programme aims to equip these teachers with essential teaching skills.
Participants will pay a subsidised fee of GH¢5,000 for the two-semester programme. The training is intensive and expected to be completed within 18 weeks. This structure allows teachers to gain their qualifications without extensive disruption to their current roles. The NTC urges all non-professional teachers to seize this opportunity. Getting a licence is vital by law for continuing to teach in Ghana. A matriculation ceremony was held recently. It marked the start for the first 1,400 students. They aim to finish their training by August 2026.
The implications of this initiative are far-reaching. A more qualified teaching force can lead to better student outcomes. This includes improved academic performance and better preparation for future challenges. For the teachers involved, gaining a professional licence opens doors to career advancement. It also provides job security. The second cohort is slated to begin in September 2026. This indicates a sustained effort by the NTC to address the qualification gap. The success of this programme will depend on effective delivery by the universities and uptake by the teachers.