Nicholas Kwasi Teye, a teacher, has attributed the poor performance of some candidates in the 2025 WASSCE to a decline in discipline and a lack of accountability among students and parents.
Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Teye argued that the introduction of free education has removed deterrents that previously compelled students to take their studies seriously.
“In an institution where you invest, it is essential to have laws that protect your interests. The government does not benefit from public schools because they provide free education; instead, it is the government that is investing in these schools. In the past, when students failed, there were punishments or deterrents to motivate learning. Now, students progress regardless of their performance,” he noted.
Mr. Teye called for the state to track students who consistently skip school, describing absenteeism as “causing financial loss to the state.”
He suggested that parents of poorly performing students should bear some financial responsibility to encourage greater involvement in their children’s education.
“Today’s students often prioritize their phones over studies. While providing tablets is positive, many use them for games instead of learning. Students who are willfully truant should face consequences,” he added.
The teacher also criticised the Ghana Education Service (GES) for allowing unqualified or poorly trained teachers to lay the academic foundation for learners, arguing that this contributes to weak performance at higher levels.
“A mistake made by the GES is allowing individuals who lack a solid understanding of the fundamentals to shape the foundation of education. Additionally, some teachers are unprofessional and fail to meet the necessary standards,” Mr. Teye said.
He emphasised that strengthened discipline, parental responsibility, and improved teacher professionalism are essential to reversing the decline in student performance.
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