The Teacher Trainees’ Association of Ghana (TTAG), led by H.E. Soale Razak, has engaged with the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, regarding the ongoing industrial strike by the Colleges of Education Teachers Association (CETAG) and its impact on teacher trainees nationwide.
Minister’s Promise
Dr. Adutwum assured TTAG that he has invited CETAG leadership for a meeting on July 5th, 2024, to discuss their demands and find a swift resolution to the strike, allowing for the resumption of academic activities in colleges of education.
He emphasized his commitment to fulfilling CETAG’s demands if they demonstrate good faith and cooperate with the government.
Upgrade of Colleges to Universities
The discussion also touched upon the potential upgrading of some colleges of education into fully fledged universities, a proposal supported by the Minister.
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Dr. Adutwum acknowledged the need for such a system, similar to the mentoring universities, and confirmed that it is achievable under the guidance of GTEC.
He pledged to implement the initiative as soon as possible.
Student Allowances
TTAG raised concerns about student allowances and infrastructure deficits in colleges.
The Minister reassured the association that initial allowances would be paid to students within the coming days.
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He also acknowledged the need for an increase in allowances and committed to discussing the TTAG proposal for a GHc800.00 allowance with relevant stakeholders.
Infrastructure Deficits
Regarding infrastructure, Dr. Adutwum recognized the poor state of buses and pledged to invest in acquiring new buses to improve transportation services.
He confirmed the termination of previous contracts for abandoned and uncompleted infrastructure projects and promised the swift awarding of new contracts for their completion.
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Student Exchange Programs
TTAG proposed a system of exporting teachers to other countries to ease the pressure on teacher employment in Ghana.
The Minister welcomed the idea and promised to consider it.
Dr. Adutwum highlighted his vision to transform the education sector, particularly focusing on enhancing Colleges of Education.
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He envisions creating a 21st-century learning environment and investing in student teachers to equip them with the skills needed for effective teaching.
TTAG Calls for Cooperation and Commitment
TTAG leadership expressed their commitment to monitor the situation closely, following up on the promised meeting with CETAG.
They also appealed to the CETAG leadership to consider meeting with the Minister to resolve the impasse.
The association vowed to actively engage with the Minister and relevant stakeholders to ensure the prompt implementation of proposed solutions, advocating for the well-being of teacher trainees and the improvement of teacher training institutions.