The Principal of Komenda College of Education, Very Rev. Professor Kwesi Nkum Wilson, has called on the Government to take bold steps to cancel the teacher trainees’ allowance and remove the quota system governing admissions into Public Colleges of Education to allow more qualified applicants to pursue teacher training.
Speaking at the College’s 15th Congregation and Graduation Ceremony on September 5, 2025, Prof. Wilson said the existing quota system has become a barrier to many qualified candidates seeking admission each year.
“We receive over 2,000 qualified applicants annually, yet the quota system forces us to admit far fewer than we can train,” he explained.
“If we remove the quota and phase out the allowance, we can increase access, promote merit-based enrollment, and ultimately strengthen Ghana’s teaching workforce.”
He stressed that the move, combined with adequate infrastructure and accommodation, would attract “committed and genuine teachers who will serve across all sectors, contributing decisively to national development.”
Prof. Wilson argued that the trainees’ allowance has outlived its usefulness and is now a major factor constraining admissions.
“The allowance, though once necessary, is now one of the key reasons behind the quota system,” he said.
“The more trainees admitted, the more allowances the government must pay, which in turn restricts enrollment. If we cancel the allowance, we can remove the admission quota and allow many more qualified applicants to pursue teacher training.”
Prof. Wilson questioned why trainees should continue to benefit from both the “No Fees Stress Initiative” and still be paid monthly allowances.
“I do not understand why trainees are enjoying free tuition and still receiving allowances,” he stressed.
“Those funds could be redirected to expand infrastructure across the Colleges of Education, improve learning conditions, and ultimately enhance the quality of teacher education.”
The ceremony, held under the theme “Sustaining Excellence in Teacher Education: Addressing Infrastructure Challenges,” marked another significant milestone for Komenda College of Education, as 590 students graduated, including an impressive 189 who attained First-Class Honours.
SEE ALSO: Komenda College of Education graduates 590 Students with 189 First Class Honours
Prof. Wilson described the day as both memorable and historic, noting: “Today is a joyous occasion, not only for our graduands and their families, but for the entire College community.”
Reflecting on the theme, he highlighted the importance of continuous infrastructural improvement as a foundation for sustaining quality teacher education.
“Addressing infrastructure challenges is not simply about building structures or acquiring equipment; it is a commitment to creating learning spaces that empower both students and staff to thrive,” he said.
He outlined several infrastructural developments undertaken by the college in recent years, including:
- Upgrading classrooms with modern furniture.
- Provision of printing equipment and computers.
- Improvements to residential facilities.
- Acquisition of industrial sewing and cooking equipment for the Home Economics Department.
“These developments are crucial in supporting modern pedagogical practices and preparing graduates to contribute effectively to a dynamic teaching and learning environment,” he noted.
However, Prof. Wilson also used the platform to draw national attention to stalled government-funded projects that are hampering teaching, learning, and administrative efficiency at the college.
He further urged government and stakeholders to look beyond the public sector when addressing graduate teacher employment, advocating for policies that would see at least 60% of teachers in the private education sector being professionally qualified.
“This will enhance the quality of education delivered nationwide and ensure that our efforts in teacher training translate into tangible improvements across all schools,” he said.
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