Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has given assurance that the government is working to address issues affecting teachers in Ghana. These issues include career progression, recruitment, infrastructure, and accommodation. The Vice President made this statement at the Ghana Teacher Prize 2026 Grand Durbar held at the UPSA Hall in Accra. The event was held under the theme, "Empowering Teachers; Architects of the Future."
The Vice President stated that the government is engaged in discussions with teacher unions and is optimistic that these talks will lead to a resolution. She emphasized that addressing the challenges confronting teachers is critical to strengthening the education system. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang urged teachers to uphold professional and ethical standards as outlined in the National Teachers' Standards, the Ghana Education Service Code of Conduct, and the professional and ethical standards of the National Teaching Council.
The education sector in Ghana continues to face several challenges, including career progression, recruitment, and infrastructure deficits, particularly at the secondary-school level. To address these issues, more than GH¢33 billion has been allocated to education in the 2026 Budget. This allocation will support infrastructure development, provision of textbooks, teaching and learning materials, and teacher accommodation.
The Vice President disclosed that the allocation will support the completion of 30 E-block projects and the construction of new primary, junior high, and kindergarten schools. Additionally, it will provide teaching and learning materials. The government is also implementing measures to improve teachers' living conditions, including the Teacher Housing Initiative and 404 teacher bungalows in underserved communities.
To improve the teaching profession, the government has removed the link between teachers' promotion and administrative vacancies. This change has enabled eligible teachers to progress through their professional ranks without waiting for positions to become available. However, the reform has increased the number of cases requiring validation and processing, and measures have been put in place to address delays and pay outstanding entitlements.
The Vice President also emphasized the need for greater investment in teachers' professional development. She stated that the government will continue to invest in teacher education, in-service training, and digital resources to equip teachers with the knowledge and skills required to prepare young people for the changing world. This is especially important as artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and changing labour markets reshape the world of work.
Finally, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang congratulated the recipients of the Ghana Teacher Prize, describing them as teachers who had distinguished themselves through knowledge, professionalism, dedication, and commitment to the teaching profession. The Vice President's assurance to teachers demonstrates the government's commitment to addressing the challenges facing the education sector and improving the teaching profession in Ghana.
Key points
- The Ghanaian government has allocated over GH¢33 billion to education in the 2026 Budget to address infrastructure and teacher-related issues.
- The government has implemented measures to improve teachers' living conditions, including the Teacher Housing Initiative and 404 teacher bungalows in underserved communities.
- The removal of the link between teachers' promotion and administrative vacancies has enabled eligible teachers to progress through their professional ranks without delay.
