Thirty two exceptional teachers in the Assin South district have been awarded for their outstanding contributions towards the development of education in the area.
The ultimate prize, a salon car, was awarded to Paul Afoakwah Okyere as the best teacher in the Assin South district.
The first runner-up received a motorbike, while the second runner-up was given a set of furniture.
Additional awards included laptops, refrigerators, televisions, washing machines, plaques, certificates and sports jerseys.
The Assin South Teachers Awards, which was held at Nyankomasi Ahenkro in the Central Region, was on the theme: “Inspiring Greatness: Celebrating the Assin South Finest Teachers.”
It was sponsored by the Deputy Minister for Education and Member of Parliament for Assin South, John Ntim Fordjour, with support from UNESCO, Ghana Education Service Occupational Pension Scheme (GESOPS), Right to Play and Sabre Education.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including the Central Regional Director of Education, Emmanuel Essuman, the national president Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Rev. Isaac Owusu and the Board Chairman of the National Teaching Council, Dr. Anis Haffer.
In his address, Mr Fordjour urged teachers to embrace postings to rural areas. He emphasised the vital role educators’ play in nurturing the potential of children in underserved communities.
According to him, rural areas often faced shortage of experienced educators because they lacked essential resources and amenities, which led many teachers to decline postings there.
However, he stressed that it was crucial for teachers to accept posting in these underserved communities because their guidance and mentorship could unlock the potential of young learners who might otherwise miss out on quality education in such areas.
Mr Fordjour praised teachers as agents of transformation, underscoring their critical role in shaping the future of the nation.
He highlighted that teachers had the unique ability to identify and nurture raw talent, helping to mould students into valuable assets for the country.
“Through their dedication and commitment, teachers pave the way for future professionals, including professors, doctors, lawyers, engineers, scientists and journalists, who contribute significantly to national development,” he stressed.
He also acknowledged the essential role of non-teaching staff, noting that their support is indispensable in creating conducive learning environment.
He commended their hard work and dedication, which he said “complement the efforts of educators in guiding and shaping students’ academic journeys, thereby ensuring a holistic approach to education.”
The National President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Rev. Isaac Owusu, on his part urged teachers to uphold high moral standards and adhere strictly to the code of conduct governing the teaching profession.
Rev. Owusu expressed concern about the rising instances of misconduct among some teachers, noting that such behaviour undermines the integrity of the profession.
He cited cases where teachers arrived at school intoxicated and instances where inappropriate relationships with students led to teenage pregnancies.
He emphasised that such actions not only tarnish the image of educators, but also contravene the ethical guidelines set by the teaching profession.
Rev. Owusu commended teachers who have demonstrated dedication and excellence in their roles, nurturing the next generation of leaders.
He congratulated the award recipients for their hard work and urged all teachers to strive for excellence, emphasising that their efforts could be recognised in future.
The Central Regional Director of Education, Mr. Emmanuel Essuman, on his part underscored the significant role teachers play in shaping the future of children.
He described teaching as a noble profession that goes beyond impacting knowledge to igniting curiosity and guiding students on a journey of discovery.
“A teacher’s influence extends far beyond the walls of the classroom; it reaches into the hearts and minds of students, shaping who they will become and how they engage with the world.”
Mr. Essuman praised the dedication of educators who often go above and beyond to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.
He appealed to teachers to exhibit exemplary moral character, reminding them that they serve as Educators and as Agents for Transformation.
The District Chief Executive (DCE) of Assin South, Felicia Ntrakwah Amissah, expressed her delight at the exceptional organisation of this year’s awards ceremony.
She noted that despite being the third edition, it stood out as the most remarkable so far. She praised the initiative as a significant motivation for educators in the district and urged them to continue their hard work to further improve the quality of education.
The district’s Best Teacher, Mr. Paul Afoakwah Okyere, expressed his gratitude and surprise upon receiving the top honour.
He remarked, “This award serves as motivation for all teachers and is a testament to the good work we are doing.”
He encouraged his colleagues to maintain high standards of behaviour, noting that educators were not only imparting knowledge, but also shaping the character, values, and attitudes of their students.
He thanked the MP and the sponsors for their contributions, expressing appreciation to his students for challenging him, which he said pushes him to learn and grow continually.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to continue working toward enhancing education in the district.
