GNAT launches cancer foundation

The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the country’s largest teachers’ union, has officially launched the GNAT Cancer Foundation (GCF).

This significant initiative is designed to provide world-class cancer treatment for teachers and their families while also promoting cancer awareness and ensuring responsible management of the resources raised for cancer care.

At a press conference held at the Sweden Ghana Medical Centre (SGMC) in Accra, Mr. Kwame Dagbandow, Deputy General Secretary of GNAT, emphasized the foundation’s mission.

“With the GNAT Cancer Foundation, we now have a dedicated body to manage our cancer fund effectively,” he said.

“The foundation will oversee the existing partnership between the GNAT Teachers’ Fund and SGMC, support preventive education, treatment, and management of cancer cases among GNAT members and their eligible family members.”

Mr. Dagbandow underscored the critical role teachers play in Ghana’s education system and the importance of their health.

“GNAT recognizes the crucial role teachers play in Ghana’s education system and their health is paramount,” he stated.

“Improving teacher productivity requires addressing their health concerns seriously.”

He highlighted that the GNAT Cancer Foundation will ensure the well-being of over 260,000 educators, reinforcing GNAT’s commitment to its members’ health and productivity.

The establishment of the GNAT Cancer Foundation follows GNAT’s acquisition of the SGMC, which was a strategic move aimed at alleviating the suffering of teachers who have been burdened by the high cost of cancer treatment.

“These initiatives are designed to alleviate the suffering of our members,” explained Mr. Dagbandow.

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“Expensive cancer treatment often forces many teachers to seek care outside Ghana. Now, they can access world-class treatment here.”

Collaboration in the fight against cancer is crucial, according to Mr. Dagbandow. “We understand the government cannot fight this battle alone.

GNAT and its members are committed to assisting the nation in this fight.” This sentiment was echoed by Board Chair Thomas Armstrong Asante, who outlined the foundation’s vision: “sustainable and stress-free cancer management for GNAT members and their families.”

He added, “Beyond this, the GCF is committed to leading a sustainable fight against cancer in Ghana. Cancer treatment is financially draining, and the cost keeps rising.”

Mr. Asante emphasized that cancer is one of the most significant health challenges facing teachers today. He urged the public to support the foundation by donating at least GHS5 when the fundraising efforts commence.

The foundation aims to focus on three key areas: increasing cancer prevention awareness and education, facilitating world-class treatment and management of cancer cases, and prioritizing responsible resource management.

The GNAT Cancer Foundation plans to conduct fundraising campaigns to solicit support from corporations, religious bodies, and individual philanthropists dedicated to fighting cancer in Ghana.

These efforts are critical to sustain the foundation’s initiatives and ensure that teachers and their families have access to necessary treatments.

Dr. Clement Edusa, CEO of the Sweden Ghana Medical Centre, also spoke at the event, addressing the growing burden of cancer cases and treatment costs in Ghana.

He highlighted the role of SGMC’s world-class facilities in combating cancer and urged local and international organizations and individuals to support the GNAT Cancer Foundation and the Cancer Centre in their efforts.

In summary, the launch of the GNAT Cancer Foundation represents a monumental step towards improving the health and well-being of Ghanaian teachers.

Through collaborative efforts and dedicated support, the foundation aims to provide sustainable, world-class cancer treatment and management, ensuring a healthier future for educators and their families.

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