GNAT to Engage in National Education Forum, Highlights Funding Challenges
The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has expressed its readiness to play a proactive role in the upcoming National Education Forum. The forum, established by President John Dramani Mahama, aims to provide a platform for dialogue on critical issues affecting the educational sector in the country.
As a key player in the sector, GNAT intends to highlight funding shortfalls that continue to hinder the effective delivery of education in Ghana.
The formation of an eight-member committee, tasked with organizing the National Education Reform, reflects the government’s recognition of the need for urgent interventions to address the challenges facing the sector.
During an interview with Channel One Newsroom, Thomas Tanko Musah, the General Secretary of GNAT, emphasized the pressing concerns of teachers and educational stakeholders, particularly around inadequate funding, which has been a longstanding issue.
The Financial Burden on Education
Musah pointed to several areas within the education system that have been severely impacted by financial constraints. One of the most concerning issues is the significant debt owed to the West African Examination Council (WAEC), which stands at over GH¢100 million. This has led to delays in the timely administration and release of examination results, affecting both students and educators.
In addition to this, Musah highlighted the challenges in financing the School Feeding Programme for basic schools across the country.
Despite the government’s commitment to supporting the nutritional needs of students, inadequate funds have meant that the programme is underfunded, forcing schools to operate with insufficient resources. The current allocation of just GH¢1.30 per student per day has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the programme in meeting its objectives.
Further exacerbating the financial crisis is the issue of capitation grants, which have been in arrears for over two years. These grants are crucial for schools to cover basic operational costs such as learning materials, infrastructure maintenance, and staff allowances.
Musah emphasized that the prolonged delay in disbursement has created an atmosphere of uncertainty in many schools, especially in underserved areas.
Indiscipline and the Need for Reform
Beyond financial concerns, Musah also raised alarms about the growing levels of student indiscipline in some Senior High Schools (SHS). Reports of violent behavior and disrespect for authority have sparked debates about the state of discipline within the education system.
According to Musah, this crisis points to the need for a fundamental review of the disciplinary systems in place within schools.
He called for a comprehensive rethinking of how students are trained not just in academics, but in character and values. “We have lost the effective aspect of training our children, which has to do with character and conscience. We will run into danger if we train children with knowledge but without character,” Musah warned.
This observation underscores a broader concern that, while academic achievements are important, the development of responsible and ethical individuals is equally critical for the country’s future. GNAT believes that schools must play a more active role in shaping students’ values and behavior.
A Call for Educational Reforms
As Ghana continues to grapple with these challenges, the National Education Forum provides an opportunity for stakeholders to address the root causes of these issues and propose sustainable solutions. Musah stressed that without addressing the systemic funding problems and reestablishing strong disciplinary measures, the country risks compromising the quality of its education system in the coming years.
“There is an urgent need to revisit the role of headmasters, who have been increasingly sidelined in decision-making. Without empowering school leadership, we will face significant challenges in managing and improving education in the future,” Musah concluded.
The discussions at the National Education Forum are expected to be pivotal in shaping the future of education in Ghana. As the country moves forward, it is clear that any lasting solutions must prioritize adequate funding, effective management, and a holistic approach to student development.
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