Gov’t listens to teacher trainees as licensure exam set to be abolished

The government of Ghana has announced that it will cancel the teacher licensure examination a decision that has brought relief to many teacher trainees across the country. This announcement was made at the 29th Annual Congress of the Teacher Trainees’ Association of Ghana (TTAG), held at Saint Francis College of Education in Hohoe.

The congress brought together students from all 46 public colleges of education in Ghana. It focused on improving teacher training under the theme “Reimagining Teacher Education in Ghana: Policy, Practice, and Partnership.”

Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, Deputy Minister of Education and Member of Parliament for Builsa South, made the announcement while speaking as the Special Guest of Honour. He revealed that the Ministry of Education is already working on plans to gradually remove the exam, which has long been unpopular among teacher trainees.

“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 said, drawing loud applause from the audience.

The licensure exam was introduced in 2018 to improve teaching standards. However, many trainees and education advocates argued that it added extra pressure to an already demanding training process.

Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, former Minister of Education, also spoke at the event. He explained that the exam was meant to ensure high standards but accepted the current government’s right to change 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,” he said.

TTAG President Soale Razak called for more practical changes in teacher education. He emphasized that teachers need training not just to instruct, but also to innovate and lead.

“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.”