The government of Ghana has announced plans to abolish the contentious teacher licensure examination, marking a major policy shift welcomed by thousands of teacher trainees across the country.
The announcement was made during the 29th Annual Congress of the Teacher Trainees’ Association of Ghana (TTAG), held at Saint Francis College of Education in Hohoe.
The event, which brought together delegates from all 46 public colleges of education in Ghana, was held under the theme “Reimagining Teacher Education in Ghana: Policy, Practice, and Partnership.” It provided a charged platform for discussions on the future of teacher preparation, professionalism, and policy direction in Ghana.
Deputy Minister of Education and Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, made the announcement during his address as Special Guest of Honour. According to him, steps are already underway at the Ministry of Education to phase out the licensure exam — a decision he says is part of a broader commitment to restructure teacher education and address trainee concerns.
“For far too long, our teacher trainees have expressed frustration over the licensure examination. Government is listening. We are committed to building a future that reflects fairness, inclusion, and opportunities for our teachers,” Dr. Apaak stated, to loud applause from the audience.
The licensure examination, introduced in 2018, was intended to raise standards in the teaching profession. However, it has faced criticism for adding another hurdle to an already rigorous training process.
Former Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, who also addressed the congress, offered a measured response to the policy reversal. He defended the motives behind instituting the exams, stating his intent was to ensure high standards in education. However, he stopped short of criticizing the current government’s direction.
“I did what I believed was right at the time. But every administration has its path. What matters is that we all remain committed to the quality and dignity of the teaching profession,” Dr. Adutwum said.
TTAG President Soale Razak used the occasion to urge systemic transformation in teacher education, beginning with practical reforms at the colleges. He stressed the importance of preparing educators not just to teach, but to innovate and lead in the 21st century.
“This congress is not just ceremonial — it is a call to action,” Razak said. “We are advocating for policies that empower, not burden. The future of Ghana’s classrooms depends on how well we train and support today’s teacher trainees.”
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