GES has full government backing on teacher discipline – Education Minister

                   Source      ghanaeducation.org 

 Education News      Ghana 

GES has full government backing on teacher discipline – Education Minister

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu says the central government is in full support of any action the management of the Ghana Education Service (GES) takes to ensure discipline in the teaching sector.

‎Speaking at the 2025 Ghana Teacher Prize ceremony in Ho, Volta Region, the Education Minister warns that teachers who take advantage of learners will face punishment, saying discipline and integrity must be the priority of teachers in the country.

‎“You are here; your heads are held high. But let it be clear, no teacher is above the law. Any teacher who operates below acceptable standards must face the full rigour and highest sanctions of the law,” he stated.

The Minister in Charge of Education also encouraged learners to maintain good behavior, recognizing the crucial role teachers play in their development.

‎“Quality education depends on discipline, commitment, and responsibility. The Ministry, the Ghana Education Service, and the Republic will continue to ensure that our teachers remain role models for the next generation,” he added.

‎The Education Minister further reiterated the government’s commitment to improving teachers’ conditions of service, acknowledging the economic challenges they face.

“We know that you are paid very little, far less than you deserve. But we will continue to work to improve your welfare and professional growth,” the Tamale South Member of Parliament assured teachers.

Relatedly, the Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has expressed concern over the disturbing rise in cases of s^xual misconduct by teachers in Senior High Schools, warning that offenders would face severe sanctions rather than being quietly transferred.

Speaking at the 2025 Ghana Teacher Prize event held in the Volta Region, the former Education Minister said, “Leadership cannot ignore teachers in positions of power who abuse our young pupils.”

“Transfers are not punishment and should never be used against those who abuse our children and disgrace our profession,” Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang told stakeholders and teachers at the event.

The Vice President, a former Minister for Education, said the central government would apply disciplinary and legal measures against offenders to safeguard the integrity of the teaching profession.

The first female Vice President also announced plans to revive Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) to promote closer collaboration between parents and schools, and strengthen student protection.

“The government has decided to revive PTAs to encourage broader participation in shaping our young learners,” she said, adding that the administration would work closely with the National Teaching Council to raise teaching standards nationwide.