Vice Presidential Candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has asserted that the NPP administration, under the exemplary leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has made significant strides in improving the conditions for teachers compared to any other government in the Fourth Republic.
This assertion was made during his campaign visit to the Abuakwa South Constituency in the Eastern Region. While addressing the chiefs, religious leaders, Muslim community, and party supporters in Asiakwa, he emphasized that the government’s educational policies and initiatives are fundamentally centered on the motivation and welfare of teachers.
He remarked that the constituents of Abuakwa South have demonstrated, with considerable enthusiasm and vigor, their approval of the efforts of their leader, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Consequently, they are expected to cast their votes in large numbers for Dr. Mahamudu. Dr. Opoku Prempeh highlighted that the government acknowledges the pivotal role of teachers in delivering quality education, asserting that any serious discourse on educational quality must prioritize the teacher’s involvement.
He took the opportunity to outline various initiatives and commendable policies introduced by the NPP government aimed at supporting Ghanaian teachers and improving their living standards.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh addressed various aspects of teacher training, highlighting the complete reinstatement of the teacher trainee allowance, the re-establishment of the Book and Research allowance, and the restoration of allowances for Arabic instructors.
He emphasized the need for timely disbursement of feeding grants for teacher trainees and advocated for the elevation of Teacher Training Colleges from institutions that award ‘Cert A’ to those that confer Diplomas and eventually Degrees.
He pointed out the inconsistent statements made by John Mahama regarding the Teacher Licensure Exams, which were introduced by his administration in 2016, as well as Mahama’s fluctuating stance on the teacher trainee allowance, which he previously abolished but now promises to reinstate if elected.
According to Dr. Opoku Prempeh, these inconsistencies highlight the NDC’s failure to fulfill its promises and to enhance the quality of education in Ghana. He urged Ghanaians to reflect on the NPP’s proven track record in managing the education sector, indicating that the party is more capable of implementing the necessary reforms and advancements.
John Mahama’s inconsistent positions on the Free SHS policy, where in one breath, he says Free SHS was not feasible and that it would collapse Ghana’s educational system, yet in another breath, he comes to say that he [John Mahama] introduced Free SHS.
He also seized the opportunity to contribute a modest donation to the Save Our Soul (SOS) International School.
