Politicisation of Education hurting pupils’ performance, GNAT President cautions

The President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers, Rev. Isaac Owusu, has expressed deep concern over the growing number of basic school pupils who are unable to meet expected academic standards.

He noted that increasing political interference in the education sector, coupled with persistent delays in the release of the capitation grant, has created severe setbacks for public basic schools across the country.

In an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Rev. Owusu explained that the state cannot single-handedly manage basic education effectively without strong collaboration from parents. He argued that efforts to restrict Parent Teacher Association contributions have deprived schools of essential support that previously supplemented classroom teaching and daily operations.

Rev. Owusu highlighted the inadequacy of the capitation grant, saying the allocation falls significantly short of the needs of public schools. The funds, he stated, are expected to cover a wide range of activities including internal examinations, sporting events, meetings, minor infrastructural repairs and the purchase of teaching and learning materials. With no school receiving more than 1,500 Ghana cedis per term, administrators are left struggling to meet these responsibilities.

He warned that the lack of adequate materials and resources at the basic level will ultimately reflect in poor performance during WAEC examinations. According to him, pupils cannot be expected to excel when the foundations of teaching and learning remain weak.

Rev. Owusu stressed the need for collective responsibility in addressing the challenges within the sector. He noted that both parents and government have distinct roles to play and should work together instead of shifting blame. He cautioned that the over politicisation of education is eroding standards and hindering progress.

The GNAT President however commended the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, for clearing all outstanding arrears of the capitation grant and ensuring the smooth release of funds for the current academic term. He indicated that this intervention has brought some relief to schools that have long struggled with delayed financing.

Rev. Owusu concluded by urging the reinstatement of active PTA involvement. He argued that parents who are willing and capable of supporting their children’s schools should not be discouraged, as their contributions play a vital role in improving the learning environment.