In a thought-provoking statement, Gifty Twum-Ampofo, the Deputy Minister of Education responsible for Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET), has argued that the economic problems faced by Ghana cannot be solely attributed to the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori Atta.
Instead, she contended that teachers should share the blame, as a nation’s gross tertiary enrollment ratio plays a significant role in its economic performance.
Twum-Ampofo expressed concern over Ghana’s low gross tertiary enrollment ratio and its detrimental effects on the country’s economy. Citing research, she highlighted the strong correlation between the ratio and the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of a nation.
According to her, increased commitment from instructors and lecturers would raise the gross tertiary enrollment ratio, leading to an improvement in the country’s GDP.
Emphasizing her point, Twum-Ampofo proclaimed that teachers, not economists or the finance minister, ultimately determine the state of the economy. She encouraged teachers to play a more active role in contributing to Ghana’s economic growth by focusing on training the necessary human capital for economic transformation.
Drawing attention to global trends, she noted that countries with a gross tertiary enrollment ratio of 40% or higher tend to have thriving economies, while those with lower ratios struggle.
Speaking during the Presbyterian College of Education’s 175th Anniversary celebration, Twum-Ampofo’s perspective sheds light on the vital role teachers play in shaping Ghana’s economic landscape. As the country’s gross tertiary enrollment ratio increases, so too does its potential for economic prosperity.
Adding to the conversation, Rt. Rev. Joseph Obiri Yeboah Mante, the Moderator of the Ghanaian Presbyterian Church and Chancellor of Presbyterian University Ghana (PUG), called on the government to develop a special compensation plan for College of Education instructors as they transition to Degree Awarding Institutions.
Mante believes that updating and tailoring teacher compensation to align with the transition from Diploma Awarding Institutions to Degree Awarding Institutions will incentivize educators to fully commit to teaching and teacher training, ultimately benefiting the nation’s educational system.
In line with Mante’s perspective, Rev. Nicholas Apreh Siaw, the principal of the Presbyterian College of Education, Akropong, also raised several urgent concerns. These included the need for adequate staff housing, sufficient vehicles to support student transportation and field experiences, and the prevention of encroachment on college lands.
By addressing these pressing issues, he believes the college can enhance the learning environment for both students and educators, fostering better educational outcomes for the nation.
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