Angel Carbonu, President of the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), has outlined key issues in Ghana’s education sector that require urgent attention from the Education Minister-designate, Haruna Iddrisu. This comes in the wake of President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to nominate the Tamale South Member of Parliament to lead the Ministry of Education.
In an interview on Eyewitness News on Thursday, January 16, 2025, Mr. Carbonu emphasized the pressing need for stakeholder engagement and a clear policy framework, especially concerning the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme. He urged the minister-designate to prioritize these issues to ensure meaningful progress in the education sector.
“The immediate priority is the Free SHS programme, which has been a topical issue in the news,” Mr. Carbonu stated. “It is something the new government promised to address through stakeholder engagement to achieve a national consensus on the way forward. We are looking forward to that consultation forum so we can make our contributions and add our quota to the discussion. That should be immediate.”
The Free SHS programme, initiated to provide free secondary education to all eligible students, has faced significant challenges since its inception. Persistent issues such as inadequate funding, overcrowded classrooms, and insufficient infrastructure have repeatedly been raised by education stakeholders. Mr. Carbonu reiterated NAGRAT’s readiness to participate in consultations, ensuring these challenges are addressed and the programme’s long-term sustainability is secured.
In addition to the Free SHS programme, Mr. Carbonu highlighted systemic challenges that continue to plague Ghana’s education sector. He underscored the urgent need to address infrastructural deficits, improve teacher welfare, and reverse the decline in basic education standards.
“The general challenge about education, we all know, is the issue of infrastructure, compensation, and the lack of satisfaction with the players in the sector. By this, I mean teachers as well as the dwindling standard in basic education as a result of neglect. These are all challenges that have been there over the years. I hope and pray that the minister-designate will be able to address some of these issues,” he remarked.
Infrastructure deficits remain a pressing concern across the country, particularly in rural and underserved areas where many schools lack basic facilities such as classrooms, desks, and teaching materials. Overcrowded classrooms have become the norm in many schools, with some students forced to study in makeshift structures or under trees. These conditions undermine the quality of teaching and learning, resulting in poor academic outcomes.
Teacher welfare has also been a longstanding issue within the education sector. Delayed salaries, inadequate incentives, and limited opportunities for professional development have contributed to widespread dissatisfaction and low morale among educators. Mr. Carbonu stressed that resolving these challenges is essential for fostering a motivated and effective teaching workforce capable of delivering quality education.
Another critical area of concern is the declining quality of basic education. Years of neglect have left many primary and early childhood education systems struggling to meet the needs of students. NAGRAT has consistently advocated for greater attention to foundational education, arguing that it serves as the bedrock for the entire education system. Mr. Carbonu urged the incoming minister to prioritize strengthening basic education to create a solid foundation for Ghana’s educational future.
Stakeholders across the education sector have expressed cautious optimism about the nomination of Haruna Iddrisu as Education Minister-designate. Many believe his extensive political experience and proven leadership capabilities position him to address the pressing challenges facing the sector. However, they have also emphasized the importance of decisive action and collaboration with key stakeholders to achieve meaningful reform.
The Free SHS programme, which has been both praised for its inclusivity and criticized for its operational challenges, remains a focal point of national discourse. Mr. Carbonu noted that addressing its shortcomings requires a collaborative approach involving teachers, parents, policymakers, and other stakeholders. By fostering dialogue and seeking consensus, the government can develop practical solutions that enhance the programme’s effectiveness and ensure it meets the needs of all students.
Teacher unions, including NAGRAT, have reaffirmed their commitment to working with the government to improve the education sector. Their priorities include advocating for better working conditions, securing timely payment of salaries, and ensuring adequate resources for schools. Mr. Carbonu expressed hope that the new minister would engage constructively with unions and other stakeholders to address these concerns.
Education remains a critical driver of national development, and the success of Ghana’s education sector is essential for the country’s broader social and economic progress. Mr. Carbonu emphasized that the challenges facing the sector require urgent attention and sustained effort from the incoming minister and the entire government.
NAGRAT’s call to action underscores the importance of addressing the systemic issues that have hindered the education sector’s growth and development. From infrastructure deficits to teacher welfare and policy clarity, the tasks ahead are daunting but achievable with commitment, collaboration, and innovative thinking.
As Ghana looks to the future, stakeholders in the education sector remain hopeful that Haruna Iddrisu will rise to the occasion and deliver on the promises made by the Mahama-led administration. By prioritizing education reforms and fostering stakeholder engagement, the incoming minister has an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy and transform Ghana’s education system for the better.
