Upper East Regional Minister Orders Closure of Zuarungu Senior High School Amid Violence
In a swift response to escalating violence, Upper East Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri Atanga has ordered the immediate closure of Zuarungu Senior High School until further notice. This drastic measure follows violent clashes on Sunday, July 20, between Frafra and Kusasi students, sparked by allegations of a mobile phone theft. The situation quickly deteriorated into a full-scale brawl, resulting in the destruction of school property and raising tensions across the campus. Apexnewsgh reported scenes of chaos, with some structures on the school grounds set ablaze during the altercation. To address the fallout from the incident, local police have arrested four students believed to be involved in the clashes. However, the situation took a dramatic turn when one suspect managed to escape custody while being transported to the police station, allegedly seizing a police officer’s magazine during the escape. In anticipation of potential reprisal attacks, authorities have deployed security personnel, including members of the military and police, to ensure the safe escort of students from Bawku back to their hometowns. The enhanced security measures aim to restore calm amid the unrest. As investigations continue, authorities remain focused on reinstating order and ensuring the safety of all students involved. With the school now closed, the Regional Minister’s decisive action underscores the commitment to addressing the underlying issues and preventing further violence in the community. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ministry of Education Moves to Cancel Teacher Licensure Examinations by August 2025
The Ministry of Education has announced the abolition of the Teacher Licensure Examinations, with a deadline set for August 30, 2025. This directive was revealed by Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu during the inauguration of the new governing board of the National Teaching Council (NTC) on July 15. Minister Iddrisu explained that this decision is part of broader reforms intended to revamp the framework for assessing teacher qualifications. The new approach aims to prioritize academic training and practical field experience over traditional standardized exams, marking a transformative turn in the evaluation process for aspiring educators. In his remarks, the Minister acknowledged that a final opportunity would be provided for candidates who have previously failed the licensure exams. He urged that candidates must complete their re-sit examinations before the phase-out of the current system takes effect. “The last of the Teacher Licensure Exams must be concluded not later than August 30. If there is a final opportunity for those who sat and couldn’t make it, that process should not go beyond August 30,” he emphasized. This directive sets the stage for a new era in teacher assessment, one that seeks to enhance the quality of education and better prepare educators for their roles in fostering academic success in Ghana’s classrooms. As the Ministry moves forward with these reforms, the focus will shift toward developing a more comprehensive evaluation system that aligns with the practical realities of teaching. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Stop parading yourself with “Dr” title GTEC issued massive warning to Hassan Ayariga
The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has formally directed politician Hassan Ayariga to immediately stop using the academic title “Dr.” This demand has arisen due to the absence of valid documentation that would justify the use of such a title. In a letter dated July 14, 2025, and signed by Prof. Augustine Ocloo, the Commission’s Deputy Director-General, GTEC outlined its previous attempts to obtain clarification from Mr. Ayariga concerning the legitimacy of his doctoral title. Regrettably, these inquiries have gone unanswered, prompting the Commission to take this formal step. Specifically, GTEC had requested essential information from Ayariga, including: The name of the awarding institution. Whether the doctorate was earned or honorary. The date the degree was conferred. The process through which it was granted. In its communication, GTEC expressed serious concerns about the use of academic titles lacking proper validation, emphasizing that this practice is “misleading and inconsistent with the academic protocols and standards governing the conferment and use of academic ranks in Ghana.” The letter explicitly stated, “In light of your inability to provide the required documentation, you are hereby directed to immediately cease the use of the title ‘Dr.’” Furthermore, GTEC demanded that Mr. Ayariga verify that the title has been removed from all public and professional platforms. This includes official documents, institutional profiles, websites, letterheads, and any other representations of his professional identity. Even in his recent Press release against the embattled Igbo King in Accra, Mr. Ayariga described himself as Dr. GTEC has granted Mr. Ayariga a deadline of July 31, 2025, to fully comply with this directive. The Commission has also warned that failure to adhere to the requirements could lead to legal action, underscoring the importance of maintaining academic standards and integrity in public life. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Female School Students Are Not Our Wives, Male Teachers Leave Them Alone
A concerned teacher, Mr. Ɔpanyin Wireko, has issued a strong message to male teachers, reminding them that female students are not their wives and should be treated with respect and professionalism. The message is clear: male teachers should leave female students alone and not exploit them. Mr. Wireko emphasizes that many girls in schools may have crushes on their teachers, but this admiration is not permission for teachers to take advantage of them. He stresses that these girls are still children, vulnerable, and figuring out their emotions. When teachers cross the line, they harm the students, killing their confidence, future, and right to grow up whole and safe. The message highlights the devastating consequences of exploitation, noting that many girls are walking around today broken, hiding pain, and blaming themselves because of teachers who exploited them. Mr. Wireko urges male teachers to be disciplined and maintain weak boundaries. The message concludes with a call to action, urging male teachers to protect female students, guard their role, and ensure the classroom is a place of growth, not trauma. The plea is simple yet powerful: leave the girl child alone, let her grow, let her breathe, and let her be safe. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Teachers and Invigilators to Face a Mobile Phone Ban During Exams – Education Minister Demands
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has called for a ban on mobile phone usage not just for students, but also for teachers and invigilators inside exam halls. Apexnewsgh reports The Minister announced the swearing-in ceremony of the new National Education Inspectorate Board, where he stressed the urgent need to clamp down on examination malpractice. “The idea of a student having access to phones in the examination room is a no-no,” Iddrisu declared. “Probably, we have to even review this concept to include the usage of phones by examiners and supervisors.” His statement comes amid growing concerns that some invigilators may be complicit in aiding students to cheat during exams. “In some instances of cheating, it may be some of them [invigilators] who are aiding the malpractice,” he said. “Therefore, we have to limit who can carry a phone into an exam room.” While acknowledging that some officials may need phones for logistical purposes—such as calling for exam papers or submitting urgent reports—the Minister insisted that any exceptions must come with strict enforcement. “I would have pronounced a complete ban on phone usage, but we have cases when examiners will have to call for exam papers or send a report,” he admitted. “However, we expect strict compliance and enforceability of this rule.” Iddrisu issued a stern warning, vowing that any invigilator caught facilitating exam fraud would face severe consequences. The proposal has sparked mixed reactions, with some educators welcoming the move as a necessary step to restore credibility in examinations, while others worry about practical challenges in enforcing the ban. As Ghana continues its fight against examination malpractice, the Minister’s latest directive could mark a turning point—ensuring that only pens, papers, and integrity enter the exam hall. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Rastafarian Student Oheneba Nkrabea Graduates from Ghana International School
Oheneba Nkrabea, one of the two Rastafarian students at the center of the high-profile Achimota School admission saga, has graduated from the Ghana International School (GIS), marking a significant milestone in his educational journey. The achievement is a testament to Nkrabea’s resilience and determination to pursue his education despite the challenges he faced. In 2021, Nkrabea and his fellow student, Tyron Marghuy, were denied admission. The school’s directive to cut their dreadlocks, which are an expression of their Rastafarian faith, sparked a nationwide debate on religious freedom and the right to education. The matter was taken to court, and in a landmark ruling, an Accra High Court ordered the school to admit the students, affirming their constitutional rights. Although the legal battle continued, with Achimota School filing an appeal, Nkrabea was awarded a scholarship to Ghana International School under the Article 17 Education Trust. The trust was established by alumnus William Hackman and four other parents to support equality and access in education. At the recent GIS graduation ceremony, the school’s CEO, Dr. Mary Asabea Ashun, hailed Nkrabea’s success as a moment of pride and progress. She described the decision to admit him as “wise and forward-thinking” and added that GIS would continue to champion inclusive initiatives. Nkrabea’s graduation stands not only as a personal triumph but also as a powerful reminder of the impact of resilience and the importance of standing up for one’s rights. His achievement serves as an inspiration to others who may face similar challenges, and it highlights the importance of promoting inclusivity and diversity in education. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
TEWU-GH Gives GTEC Seven-Day Ultimatum
The Tertiary Education Workers Union of Ghana (TEWU-GH) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), demanding the immediate reversal of a directive compelling traditional public universities to swear in representatives from the Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union under the Trade Union Congress (TEWU-TUC) onto their Governing Councils. The directive, issued by GTEC on June 18, 2025, formally recognized TEWU-TUC as the legitimate union to represent non-teaching staff on the governing boards of public traditional universities. GTEC directed all affected institutions to swear in TEWU-TUC representatives with immediate effect and to accord them full Council privileges. However, TEWU-GH has vehemently rejected the directive, arguing that it undermines union pluralism and breaches due process in labour representation. National Chairman of TEWU-GH, Sulemana Abdul Rahaman, stated that the recognition of TEWU-TUC does not invalidate the rights and relevance of TEWU-GH. “The bargaining certificate held by TEWU-TUC does not extinguish the legitimacy of TEWU-GH,” Abdul Rahaman said. “This directive is a violation of democratic principles and an affront to the autonomy of unions within Ghana’s labour ecosystem.” TEWU-GH has called on the broader labour movement to intervene and urged prominent labour leaders to refrain from divisive comments that may threaten unity among unions. “With respect for democratic and fair representation, we appeal to all comrades within the labour fraternity to advise brother Joshua Ansah to avoid statements that do not foster harmony at the labour front,” Abdul Rahaman said. TEWU-GH has vowed to resist what it sees as an attempt to marginalize its members and is calling on GTEC to reverse the decision or face further action after the seven-day window expires. The outcome of this dispute remains to be seen, but it is clear that TEWU-GH is determined to protect its members’ interests and rights. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
GES Takes Steps to Resolve Salary Delays and Staff ID Issues for Newly Posted Teachers
The Ghana Education Service has announced that efforts are underway to resolve concerns raised by newly posted teachers who picketed on Monday, June 23, over delays in salary payments and staff ID issuance. The Ministry of Education has formally requested an extension of the expired financial clearance from the Ministry of Finance, which will enable the processing of salary arrears spanning nearly ten months and the issuance of staff identification numbers for the affected teachers. The affected teachers, who assumed duty in September 2024, have yet to receive full remuneration. Specifically, out of the 12,807 graduates recruited that year, 2,113 have not been paid despite being issued staff IDs, while an additional 582 did not receive staff IDs due to inconsistencies in Ghana Card details, SSNIT numbers, and instances of self-reposting. To address these issues, the GES has established a technical committee comprising representatives of the aggrieved teachers to improve communication and coordination throughout the resolution process. According to GES Public Relations Officer, Daniel Fenyi, “Significant progress has already been made,” and the Service is committed to resolving the matter. The GES is also addressing both immediate concerns and long-term reforms to prevent future occurrences. However, the GES cited challenges in stakeholder engagement, pointing to shifting leadership among teacher groups as a barrier to sustained dialogue. The Service is urging unified representation to improve communication and expedite the resolution process. A budgetary allocation has been made in the 2025 national budget to support payments to the affected personnel, raising hope for a resolution soon. The GES has assured the public that it is actively working to resolve recruitment backlogs and prevent future issues by addressing systemic lapses in the recruitment process. With the establishment of a technical committee and a budgetary allocation in place, the GES is optimistic about resolving the salary delays and staff ID issuance issues. The Service appeals to the teachers to remain calm and continue to engage with the Management to find a lasting solution to the problems. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Ghana Education Service Meets with Aggrieved Teachers
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has invited about 100 aggrieved teachers into a closed-door meeting in a bid to defuse growing tensions over months of unpaid salaries and delayed staff ID issuance. The teachers, part of the 2022 batch from various Colleges of Education, have been picketing at the GES headquarters in Accra since morning on Monday, June 23, demanding action on ten months of salary arrears and the failure to process their staff identification numbers. In a departure from standard protocol, the GES opted to meet not only with union leaders but also with a broader group of the affected teachers. Public Relations Officer of the GES, Daniel Fenyi, said the approach was to foster transparency and ensure all concerns were heard directly. As part of preparations for the engagement, Fenyi asked the media to temporarily step aside, assuring that a briefing would be provided after the meeting. The teachers, who number 784 and are drawn from all sixteen regions, say they have endured enough broken promises from the GES. “What wrong have I done? I have schooled for four years, served my country for a year, and passed my licensure exams. Is deciding to be a teacher my crime? Ten good months,” said Serwaa Korang, a nursing mother. Another teacher, Charity Amponsah, said: “We have put up with poor conditions of service, yet we have been denied payment for our services. Is it a crime to be a teacher?” Maxwell Adogo, posted to the North East Region, shared his struggles: “I reside in Ashaiman, but I was posted to Chereponi. I don’t have my staff ID yet, but I am the only new teacher who was posted to the school where I teach. It is not easy there. There is no potable water even to cook with. How will I survive without being paid?” The outcome of the meeting is expected to shape the next steps in resolving the protracted salary and ID issuance concerns. The GES’s decision to engage directly with the affected teachers demonstrates a willingness to listen and address their concerns. The meeting’s outcome will be crucial in determining whether the teachers’ demands will be met and whether the GES can find a solution to the crisis. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Government Approves Book and Research Allowances for Senior Members of Public Universities and Colleges
The government has approved the payment of Book and Research Allowances for senior members of public universities and colleges of education for the 2024/2025 academic year. Apexnewsgh reports According to a document seen by Citi News, academic staff will receive $1,500 as Book Allowance and $1,600 as Research Allowance, while non-academic senior staff will receive $1,500 as Book Allowance. The cedi equivalent of the allowances will be calculated using the Bank of Ghana’s average exchange rate of GHS15.47 to $1.00, covering the period from September 2, 2024, to March 28, 2025. The Ministry of Finance has directed that all claims submitted must be audited and validated by Internal Audit Units of the respective institutions before forwarding to the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) for processing and payment. Institutions are required to submit two copies of audited claims for both academic and non-academic senior members, using a standardized claims template. The directive is expected to trigger immediate submissions from institutions amid ongoing tension within the tertiary education sector over salary arrears, cost-of-living pressures, and outstanding allowances. Three key unions in tertiary education — the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG), and the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) — have jointly threatened a nationwide strike if the government fails to pay their book and research allowances by June 13, 2025. The unions warned that the delay in releasing the exchange rate required to compute their book and research allowances has created “significant uncertainty and frustration” among members. They stressed that the allowance is a statutory obligation under their Conditions of Service, not a discretionary gesture, and that failure to honor the June 13 deadline will be treated as an official strike notice, triggering industrial action across all affected campuses. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen