Career guidance is crucial but often missing in many senior high schools in Ghana.
Many students graduate without clear direction, unsure whether to pursue teacher training, nursing, university, trade, or starting a business.
Decisions are often influenced by rumors or peer pressure rather than informed choices.
Common Misconceptions
Some students might think:
- “I won’t teach because teachers aren’t paid well or respected.”
- “I’ll do nursing because I love the uniform.”
- “I want university because of freedom and fun!”
But is this the best way to choose your future career?
If you see yourself teaching in a classroom one day, you’re already leaning towards an education career.
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The big question is, should you go to training college or university?
Let me see if I can help you with some clarity. Here’s the breakdown:
Training College
- Duration: 4 years, studying B.Ed Basic Education, similar to university.
- Employment: Assured automatic employment with the Ghana Education Service (GES) after graduation, though this may change in the future.
- Teaching Level: You’ll start teaching in basic schools—Kindergarten, Lower Primary, Upper Primary, and Junior High School.
SEE ALSO: How to Become a Teacher in Ghana
University
- Duration: 4 years if studying an education course. Options include Basic Education or other education programs with specialization in subjects taught in senior high schools.
- Employment: No automatic job placement; graduates often have to search for jobs.
- Challenges: Many end up in private schools, unemployed for years, or switching careers due to unemployment.
Choosing Your Path
If your goal is to become a teacher, consider the following:
- Training College: Offers more structure and discipline, and gets you your dream job faster. Despite perceptions of being treated like an SHS student, the benefits may outweigh the drawbacks.
- University: If your dream is to teach in senior high school, you’ll need a subject-specific degree from the university. However, you can still pursue Basic Education in a college of education and specialize later.
SEE ALSO: Can I Get Into Nursing Training College If I Fail Core Science But Pass Maths And English? -Check Here
Salary Considerations
Salary is the same regardless of whether you attended training college or university, and whether you teach in senior high school or basic school. Payment is based on ranks and qualifications.
Final Thoughts
If you want to study non-education courses like engineering, medicine, political science, or tech-related programs, university is your path.
But if teaching or nursing is your passion, teacher or nursing training college might be your best bet.
Conclusion
The decision is yours. Know what you want, plan your path, and don’t let societal pressure push you into the wrong choice.
If you have any questions, drop them in the comments below, and let’s talk.
SEE ALSO: B.Ed JHS Education vs B.Ed Primary Education: Which Is Better? Which Is More Challenging? -Check Here
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Credit: Informed Teachers Network
