Uncertainty Looms as CETAG Strike Disrupts Level 300s Compulsory Six-Week STS Observations

The third-year students in Colleges of Education have completed their end-of-first semester examination, and according to their academic calendar, they were scheduled to begin their six-week compulsory observations, known as Supported Teaching in School (STS), on Monday, 28th August 2023.

However, with the current strike by the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG), these trainees are uncertain about whether they will be able to fulfil this requirement.

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Reports indicate that some colleges have instructed their students to return home while awaiting further instructions on how the observation process will be carried out.

On the other hand, some colleges have also advised their students to initiate the exercise at basic schools in their respective residential areas as they await further directives.

The observation(STS) period is a crucial component of the B.Ed programme and a requirement for all the trainees to fulfil, as it allows them to gain practical experience in real educational settings.

By observing and assisting experienced teachers in classrooms, trainees can apply the theoretical knowledge they have acquired during their studies.

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It also offers them an opportunity to develop essential skills, such as lesson planning, classroom management, and effective communication with students.

Without completing this observation requirement, trainees may struggle to fully grasp the practical aspects of their chosen profession.

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This situation has left many trainees feeling frustrated and anxious about their academic future. With no clear indication of when the strike will end.

There is a growing concern that the academic calendar will continue to be disrupted and this even makes the siutation worse.

Considering the circumstances, third-year trainees in the various colleges are strongly advised to adhere to any guidance provided by their STS Coordinators regarding the observation exercise.

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Trainees are also urged to remain informed and prepared to adapt to any changes or alternative arrangements that may arise as a result of the strike.