Policy reforms on discipline, safer teaching environment vital — GNAT

The Central Region branch of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has made a strong call for policy reforms aimed at strengthening discipline in schools and safeguarding the safety and dignity of teachers across the country.

The call stems from the association’s deep concern over the growing incidents of unprovoked attacks on teachers by students and, in some cases, parents.

At the Seventh quadrennial and 54th regional delegates conference of GNAT at the Nduom School of Business and Technology in Komenda last Thursday, the Central Regional Chairman of GNAT, Benjamin Wilberforce Eshun, said such policy reforms would create a congenial and safer place for both educators and learners. 

Conference

The event, which brought together key stakeholders in the education sector, was held on the theme, “Education and Africa fit for the 21st century: The role of policy makers and the unions in Ghana.”

Mr Eshun revealed that some of these attacks involved the use of weapons, creating a climate of fear in the classrooms.

“This situation is not only unfortunate but deeply worrying. No teacher should be afraid to walk into a classroom,” he stated.

Mr Eshun called for a revision of the rules governing student conduct and parental responsibility, arguing that existing policies no longer reflect the realities teachers face on the ground.

He stressed that while teachers had a duty to maintain professionalism and discipline, they also deserved protection and respect from the communities they served.

“We are not asking for special treatment,” he said, “we are simply demanding that our safety be prioritised, so we can carry out our work without intimidation or harm.”

GNAT’s commitment

Mr Eshun also reiterated GNAT’s commitment to supporting any initiative that advances quality education in the country.

He praised the hard work and dedication of teachers in the region and thanked institutions, organisations, and individuals who had consistently supported the union’s mission.

“Your contributions have shaped our journey and helped us remain strong,” he noted.

The conference elected new executives who would lead GNAT in the region over the next four years.

The outgoing executives were lauded for their service and dedication, particularly in navigating the union through challenging times.

Speaking on behalf of the General Secretary for GNAT, Thomas Tanko Musah, Samuel Cody stated that while GNAT was resolute in defending the rights and welfare of its members, it did not condone criminal behaviour.

“When it comes to issues like defilement or murder, GNAT will not defend you. We must hold ourselves to the highest standards,” he cautioned. 
He also urged teachers to take their roles in the union seriously and to contribute meaningfully to its progress, instead of simply enjoying its benefits.

New educational model

In remarks made on her behalf, the Central Regional Director of Education, Dr Juliette Otami, spoke on the shifting landscape of global education, emphasising the need for an educational model that equipped African children with technological skills while keeping them rooted in their culture and heritage.

According to her, “An African child today must be able to compete in a digital world without losing sight of who they are.”

She praised teachers as the lifeblood of the education system and stressed the importance of ensuring equity across the sector.

“No teacher, whether in an urban centre or a rural classroom, should be left behind or feel discriminated against,” she said.

She also encouraged GNAT members to embrace collaboration and unity in addressing challenges.

Strides

The National President of GNAT, Mr Isaac Owusu, used the occasion to outline the strides the union had made in recent years.

He lamented that while GNAT has been instrumental in championing the welfare of teachers, its work often went unacknowledged.

“We are doing a lot, but people don’t see us,” he said.

Mr Owusu disclosed that the association had successfully reduced its expenditure on rent by constructing permanent office buildings across all ten traditional regions of the country.

He also announced the commencement of health projects, including hospitals, to serve GNAT members and their families.

“We are investing in your well-being, both in your professional and personal life,” he told members.