Out International, in partnership with the National Teaching Council (NTC), Ghana Education Service (GES), Inspire to Rise, GIMPA, and Genescis, has held the 2025 edition of the Outstanding Teacher Summit under the theme “Positioning.”
The gathering aimed to strengthen teachers’ capacities, improve their well-being, and provide fresh approaches to professional and personal development.
The summit was skillfully directed by Yaa Affumwaah Larbi, a public relations practitioner and Executive Secretary of Out International.
Professor Stanley Coffie of GIMPA delivered the opening address, which paved the way for remarks from the convener, Ms. Stella Gyimaah Larbi, CEO of Out International, Joy Learning educator, and 2022 winner of the Ghana Teacher Prize.
She emphasized the central role of teachers in national development while acknowledging the critical contribution of partners who continue to champion education.
A vibrant cultural performance by Madina SDA Kindergarten added a spirited touch to the ceremony.
Keynote speeches came from respected scholars and thought leaders including Mr. Prosper Afun, Prof. Enoch Opoku, and Dr. Ernestina Korleki Tetteh.
Their presentations explored leadership, innovative positioning for teachers, and effective educational practices that shaped the tone of discussions.
Participants later split into six interactive breakout sessions, led by experts such as Mr. Divine Kpe, Mr. Godwin Adu-Afful, Baroness Mrs. Mavis Leonards, Mr. Ferdinand Ellis, Ms. Rosetta Lagbo, and Ms. Perpetual Bosomprah.
The sessions tackled themes like mental health, industry linkages, innovation in education, and alternative income opportunities for teachers.
Each group presented practical recommendations designed to promote teacher well-being and career growth.
A panel moderated by Favour Asantewaa Nunoo also highlighted innovative practices in education. Speakers—Mr. Kpe, Mr. Adu-Afful, and Baroness Leonards—shared insights on creative classroom techniques, leadership training, and opportunities that extend beyond the conventional teaching role.
The panel encouraged teachers to see themselves as leaders not only in schools but also in business, research, and community development.
The summit ended with an awards ceremony recognizing educators who have shown resilience, creativity, and dedication in shaping the next generation.
In her closing remarks, Ms. Stella Gyimaah appealed for more sponsorship to sustain the initiative, stressing that “investing in teachers is investing in the nation’s future.”
Dr. Divine Eli-Cophie, Lecturer at the University of Health and Allied Sciences and COO of OUT INTERNATIONAL, reiterated that the summit is a platform for strengthening teacher capacity and building professional networks.
Dr. Ernestina Korleki Tetteh, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Ghana, applauded Ms. Gyimaah and her team while stressing that teachers often remain undervalued.
She called for stronger financial and emotional support, reminding stakeholders that educators cannot thrive under economic pressure or mental health challenges.
Prof. Enoch Opoku Antwi, Dean of Business Administration at Academic City University College, also urged Ghanaians to show greater appreciation for teachers, whom he described as the backbone of every profession.
He further encouraged teachers to nurture values of honesty, patriotism, and respect among the youth, particularly in the face of global cultural shifts.
The second edition of the Outstanding Teacher Magazine was also launched during the event, spotlighting the journey of Director Ibrahim Mumuni, Municipal Director of Education for Ga Central.
His story traced his growth from classroom teacher to Municipal Director, mentoring many who have gone on to become outstanding educators.
The 2025 Outstanding Teacher Summit reaffirmed a powerful truth: teachers are nation-builders, innovators, and community leaders.
By fostering partnerships between academia, industry, and government, OUT INTERNATIONAL is championing the agenda of positioning teachers at the heart of the country’s progress.
Source – Augustina Yin