Education Minister commissions committee to scrap Teacher Licensure Exams

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has commissioned a newly inaugurated National Teaching Council (NTC) Committee to develop a new framework for assessing teacher qualifications—one that places greater emphasis on academic training and practical fieldwork rather than standardised licensure examinations.

The directive aligns with President John Mahama’s 2024 campaign pledge to abolish the teacher licensure exams if elected.

"Yes, it’s true the NDC campaigned on the manifesto promise—we will end licensure exams. We did, and we will keep faith with the electorate. But I need professional advice on this matter. That is why I’m putting this committee together to advise, most appropriately, how to work through the transition. A transition from a licensure exam regime to a no-licensure-exams regime," Mr Iddrisu stated.

He explained that the role of the committee is to guide the process of transitioning from the current licensure examination system to a new form of teacher qualification assessment.

Mr Iddrisu suggested that the NTC should also consider granting one final opportunity for candidates who previously failed the exams to resit before the exams are officially phased out.

"With further advice, I want to say that one last opportunity of a resit of the licensure exams for those who couldn’t make it the last time must also be part of your recommendations. What do we do? Do we offer them an opportunity of a resit?" he queried.

He reiterated that any new approach should include academic training and practical fieldwork as a core part of the teacher education curriculum.

“In our manifesto again, it was our pledge to incorporate it into the curriculum of teacher training institutions… that it becomes part of their curriculum,” the Minister added.

Beyond reforms in teacher qualification, Mr Iddrisu also voiced concern over the quality of graduates from tertiary institutions. He made these remarks during the inauguration of the new board of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC).

He reminded the board of their critical mandate to regulate and enhance the quality of higher education across the country.

“Focus primarily on the regulatory mandate of the Commission, and in particular, as you are aware, higher education remains the exit point for many young people getting exposure into the world of work,” the Minister said.