Over 42,000 Teachers in Ghana Lack Professional Qualifications – NTC

The National Teaching Council (NTC) has revealed that more than 42,000 teachers currently teaching in basic and senior high schools across Ghana do not have professional teaching qualifications.

According to the council, a nationwide survey conducted in schools showed that about 12,279 teachers in Senior High Schools are unqualified, while over 30,000 teachers in basic schools are also teaching without the required professional certification.

Speaking during a matriculation ceremony in Kumasi for students enrolled in a Special Postgraduate Diploma in Education programme, the Director in charge of Licensing and Registration at the NTC, Francis Addai explained that the situation has led to the introduction of an 18-week fast-track teacher education programme.

He stated that the programme is being organised through a partnership between National Teaching Council, University of Cape Coast, University of Education, Winneba, University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Valley View University and University for Development Studies.

Mr. Addai noted that the initiative is aimed at helping graduates who are already in classrooms to gain professional certification and teaching licences as required under the law.

According to him, the programme will enable participants to obtain teaching licences from the NTC after completing the training.

The first batch of the programme is currently ongoing, with about 1,400 teachers already enrolled and expected to complete their studies in August this year.

He further disclosed that registration for the second cohort is expected to begin in June, while classes are scheduled to start in September.

Mr. Addai also indicated that the programme has been heavily subsidised, costing GH₵5,000 for two semesters. He described it as one of the shortest and most affordable pathways for teachers seeking professional qualification status.

He warned that under existing regulations, teachers without professional qualifications and licences cannot continue to remain in the teaching service.

The programme is being implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Education as part of efforts to improve teaching standards across the country.