Enhancing Teacher Support for Quality Education: Weija Gbawe MP addresses GNAT Local Conference
Human Rights Reporters
2 min read
At the Weija Gbawe Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) Local Conference held on March 18, 2025, Hon. Jerry Ahmed Shaib, the Member of Parliament for Weija-Gbawe and Second Deputy Minority Whip, delivered a compelling keynote address emphasizing the need to enhance support for educators.
His speech, centered around the theme “Learning for Sustainable Futures: Attracting and Retaining Teachers for Quality Education and Union Participation,” called for urgent action to improve working conditions and create supportive environments that make the teaching profession more appealing.
Hon. Shaib urged collaboration among the government, teacher unions, and local communities to ensure that teachers feel valued and motivated in their roles.
He articulated that enhancing the appeal of the teaching profession is crucial to retaining quality educators, which ultimately leads to improved educational outcomes for students.
The conference took place at the ITS Conference Room within the Weija Gbawe Municipal Assembly Compound, gathering educators, dignitaries, and advocates to discuss pressing challenges in the education sector.
The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as participants engaged in meaningful conversations about the future of education in the region.
Mr. Edward Nimako, the outgoing chairman, opened the conference by welcoming attendees and expressing gratitude for their commitment to education.
This set a collaborative tone for the day’s events.
Mr. Charles Odoom, the Municipal Director of Education, echoed Hon. Shaib’s sentiments, stressing the importance of unity among stakeholders to elevate educational standards.
He encouraged teachers to actively pursue professional development and take ownership of their roles in shaping the future of education, while also highlighting the need for community support of educators.
Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor, Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), addressed the harmful impacts of corporal punishment in schools, advocating for its abolition.
He urged educators to adopt non-violent discipline methods that foster safe and respectful learning environments, reinforcing the need for systemic changes that benefit both teachers and students.
The conference then transitioned to the election of new officers, led by Madam Emma Asante, Chairperson of the GNAT Election Committee.
Following the official dissolution of the outgoing leadership, candidates presented their visions for the future of GNAT.
The elections were conducted smoothly, resulting in the following newly elected officers: Edward Nimako as Chairman, Felix Dzanku as Secretary, Esther as Vice Chairperson, Josephine Adama Hammond as Vice Secretary, Cynthia Eddie Chapman as Treasurer, Joseph Odotei Odoi as Youth Coordinator, Faiza as GNATLAS Coordinator, Madam Anita Gyefour as Education Office Representative, and Emmanuel Kwaku Boateng as Basic School Coordinator.
In his acceptance speech, newly elected Chairman Edward Nimako expressed heartfelt gratitude for the trust placed in him and his team.
He reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for the welfare of all GNAT members and improving educational outcomes across the region.
The conference concluded with a motion from the Chairman, emphasizing the collective responsibility of all stakeholders to ensure a brighter future for Ghana’s educational system.
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