The Eastern Regional Chairman of the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), Godwin Awoonor-Yevu, has issued a stern warning to teachers against engaging in inappropriate relationships with their students.
Speaking at an event marking World Teachers’ Day on October 5 at Kwahu Mpreaso in the Eastern Region, he emphasized that s*xual abuse of students should never be viewed as part of any welfare benefits for teachers.
Addressing the audience, Mr. Awoonor-Yevu recalled a concerning incident involving four teachers from the same school who had engaged in s*xual misconduct with their students.
He revealed that these teachers were brought before a disciplinary committee and expressed deep remorse for their actions. “They wept bitterly. Who caused it?” he posed, highlighting the personal and professional consequences of such behavior.
He further warned that no teachers’ union would come to the defense of those involved in immoral activities, as such cases fall outside the scope of union welfare provisions and become disciplinary issues.
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“Whenever a teacher is involved in immoral activity, no union would come to your aid, it doesn’t fall under welfare package. It becomes a disciplinary issue,” Mr. Awoonor-Yevu reiterated.
In light of these issues, Mr. Awoonor-Yevu called for the creation of a new social contract that prioritizes the well-being of teachers, encouraging dialogue and collaboration between educators and government authorities.
He emphasized the need for a participatory policy-making process to ensure teachers are fairly compensated and supported.
“We envisage a new social contract prioritizing teachers’ well-being, empowering expertise through government support. A safe, supportive, and inclusive environment, regular professional growth, fair compensation, job security, and involving teachers in decision-making policies,” he said.
His comments come at a time when teacher-student relationships and the safeguarding of students have gained significant attention, and his call for stronger policies aims to ensure a healthier, more professional educational environment.
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