The government has been urged to explore alternative solutions before considering the complete abolition of teacher trainee allowances.
This call comes from Very Rev. Solomon Kwame Gyamerah, Principal of Akyem Asene-Aboabo Oda Methodist College of Education (METCO), who argues that scrapping the allowance could disenfranchise vulnerable students.
Speaking at METCO’s 6th matriculation ceremony, where 345 new students were admitted, Rev. Gyamerah suggested a more nuanced approach.
He proposed giving teacher trainees the option to either self-finance their education or access loans from the Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF), repayable after graduation.
“A sudden removal of the allowance could lead to significant financial hardships for many trainees,” he cautioned.
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He believes this alternative would allow the government to manage its financial constraints while ensuring that deserving students are not denied the opportunity to become teachers.
Echoing the importance of preparation, Mr. Andy Agorda, Registrar at the Institute for Teacher Education and Continuing Professional Development, University of Education, Winneba, advised the newly matriculated students to strive for academic excellence, emphasizing that rigorous preparation is crucial for their future success in the teaching profession.
