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A senior academic from the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), Dr. Nelson Amponsah, has expressed strong concerns over the direction of Ghana’s education system, describing it as one that prepares students for economies and realities that are not their own.
Speaking at the 7th quadrennial (54th) District Delegates Conference of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) for the Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese (AAK) District, Dr. Amponsah lamented that Ghanaian students are being trained to fit into American or Asian economies rather than being equipped with the skills necessary for Ghana’s predominantly agricultural and extractive economy.
He cited examples from other countries such as China, where children are introduced early to hands-on skills like woodwork, bakery, tailoring, and hardware. In contrast, he said, Ghana often avoids similar practical education due to fear of being accused of child labour or human rights violations—an attitude he believes is misguided and detrimental to national progress.
While affirming his opposition to child labour and abuse, Dr. Amponsah stressed the importance of integrating vocational and practical training at all levels of education to align with the country’s development goals.
Also speaking to Atinka News, the outgoing Chairman of GNAT in the AAK District, Mr. Eric Dadzie, voiced frustration over the poor motivation of teachers in Ghana.
He accused successive governments of failing to fulfill promises made to the teaching profession, leaving educators to struggle under difficult conditions.
During the conference, some candidates in the GNAT district elections commended the fairness and transparency of the process, and expressed gratitude to the delegates for their continued support.
The event, held under the theme “The Ghana Education Service @50: Achievements, Teacher Motivation, Challenges, and the Way Forward”, brought together education stakeholders to reflect on the state of Ghana’s education and the future of the teaching profession.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com| Agyei Kwaku Mensah