Ghana’s education sector is once again turning the spotlight on excellence, as the National Teaching Council (NTC), in partnership with the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), has officially opened nominations for the Ghana Teacher Prize (GTP) 2026.
The prestigious national award scheme, widely regarded as one of the highest honours in Ghana’s education space, seeks to recognise and celebrate outstanding contributions from educators and education support professionals across the country. Applications are open to individuals in both public and private institutions, spanning pre-tertiary and tertiary levels.
In a formal communication issued on March 16, 2026, the Registrar of the NTC, Dr. Christian Addai-Poku, urged regional and district education authorities to ensure that the opportunity reaches all eligible candidates.
The call is clear: Ghana’s most impactful educators must step forward or be nominated to share their stories and contributions with the nation.
Expanding Recognition Across Five Categories
This year’s Ghana Teacher Prize has been broadened to reflect the diverse roles that contribute to educational success. The awards will be presented across five key categories:
- Teaching (Pre-tertiary classroom teachers in public and private schools)
- Teacher in Administration & Leadership (Heads, Directors, SISOs, and education managers)
- Non-Teaching Staff (Support personnel in pre-tertiary institutions)
- Best College Lecturer (Tutors in colleges of education)
- Private School Teachers
The expanded structure underscores a growing recognition that quality education is a collective effort driven not only by classroom teachers but also by leadership, support staff, and higher education professionals.
Excellence Beyond the Classroom
At the heart of the selection process is impact. Applicants must demonstrate measurable contributions to student learning, institutional growth, or community development. A minimum of five years of service is required across all categories.
For classroom teachers, evaluation criteria go beyond academic delivery. Judges will assess innovation in teaching methods, use of technology, student performance outcomes, and contributions to community and professional development. Creativity, adaptability, and the ability to inspire learners in challenging environments are key differentiators.
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Leadership candidates will be evaluated on their vision, administrative effectiveness, and ability to drive systemic improvements within their institutions. Meanwhile, non-teaching staff will be recognised for operational excellence and their broader contributions to school life.
Inclusive Nomination Process
One of the defining features of the Ghana Teacher Prize is its inclusive nomination system. Candidates can be nominated by:
- Themselves
- Colleagues and fellow staff
- Parent-Teacher Associations
- Boards of Governors
- Students, alumni, and community leaders
- Professional unions
This wide nomination scope ensures that deserving educators, especially those who may not self-promote still have a pathway to recognition.
A Platform for National Impact
Reinforcing the importance of the initiative, GNAT’s Deputy General Secretary for Education and Professional Development, Amadu Moses Baman Snr., has called on teachers nationwide to actively participate.
Over the years, the Ghana Teacher Prize has evolved into more than just an award. It has become a national platform for redefining teaching excellence encouraging educators to document their journeys, share best practices, and contribute to shaping the future of education in Ghana.
As the 2026 edition unfolds, teachers, administrators, and education professionals across all 16 regions are being encouraged to prepare their applications and submit before the deadline.
Deadline and Application
Applications for the Ghana Teacher Prize 2026 close on June 10, 2026. Interested applicants can submit their entries via the official portal: gtp.ntc.gov.gh.
With recognition, national visibility, and the opportunity to inspire a new generation of educators at stake, the stage is set for Ghana’s finest teachers to rise and be celebrated.
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