Seizing the opportunity: A call to action for non-professional teachers

The establishment of the Education Regulatory Bodies Act 2020 (ACT 1023) has revolutionised the education sector in Ghana. 

One of the key regulatory bodies formed under this Act is the National Teaching Council (NTC), which is responsible for regulating the teaching profession. The NTC has introduced a licensing examination to ensure that teachers meet the required standards to deliver effective education.

The licensing regime introduced by the NTC aims to ensure quality education. By setting standards for teacher education and training, the NTC ensures that teachers have the necessary knowledge, skills and attitudes to deliver quality education.

Prior to 2018, teachers did not need a licence to teach, but with the introduction of the licensure regime, all newly trained teachers must now pass the licensing examination to become professional teachers.

However, trained teachers already in the system were exempted from writing the licensure examination and instead underwent in-service training sessions to qualify for the licence.

Non-professional teachers, including bachelor's degree and non-bachelor's degree holders, were also given a grace period to upgrade themselves to secure the licence. Recently, the NTC announced a special dispensation for over 30,000 non-professional teachers to obtain the appropriate teaching registration and licensing by December 2024.

Under this dispensation, degree holders will enrol in a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) programme, while other categories of untrained teachers will attend a one-week Boot Camp training. This is a significant opportunity for non-professional teachers to upgrade their skills and become licensed professionals.

The Daily Graphic welcomes this decision and urges non-professional teachers to take advantage of this opportunity to obtain a professional licence without writing the licensure examination.

This window of opportunity should not be missed, as after December 2024, degree holders will still be required to upgrade themselves and write the licensure examination, while those without a degree will need to complete a full degree programme before writing the licensure examination.

The NTC is offering a favour, and non-professional teachers must seize this opportunity to become licensed professionals. The teacher licensing regime has come to stay, and having a licence is now a prerequisite for teaching.

The Daily Graphic encourages non-professional teachers to take advantage of this opportunity to upgrade themselves and become licensed professionals.

In addition to the benefits of becoming a licensed professional, this opportunity also provides a chance for non-professional teachers to enhance their skills and knowledge. The PGDE programme and Booth Camp training will equip them with the necessary tools to deliver effective education and improve student outcomes.

Furthermore, this initiative demonstrates the government's commitment to improving the quality of education. By ensuring that all teachers are licensed professionals, the government is taking a significant step towards achieving its goal of providing quality education for all.

Licensing promotes professionalism among teachers, recognising teaching as a profession that requires specialised training and expertise. Also by ensuring that teachers are equipped to deliver effective education, licensing contributes to improved student outcomes and academic achievement.

It is important to state that licensing helps regulate the teaching profession, ensuring that only qualified and trained individuals enter the classroom. It promotes accountability among teachers, schools and educational institutions, ensuring that they meet the required standards.

The fact is that Ghana's teacher licensing regime aligns with international standards and best practices in teacher education and training and encourages teachers to engage in continuous professional development so they can stay updated on best practices and research in education.

By licensing teachers, the NTC aims to improve the quality of education, enhance teacher professionalism and promote accountability, ultimately leading to better outcomes.
In conclusion, the NTC's special dispensation for non-professional teachers is a significant opportunity that should not be missed.

Non-professional teachers must seize this chance to upgrade themselves and become licensed professionals. The Daily Graphic urges all eligible teachers to take advantage of this opportunity and become part of the licensed teaching profession.