GABET raises concerns over teacher training and resources for new SHS curriculum

The Ghana Association of Business Education Teachers (GABET) has expressed concerns over the implementation of the new Senior High School (SHS) curriculum. The association claims that inadequate teacher training, limited teaching resources, and the exclusion of Business Education teachers from the curriculum development process are hindering the program's potential to equip students with the necessary skills.

At the 29th Annual National Conference and Workshop of GABET in Kumasi, these issues were highlighted during a three-day conference titled "Assessing the Implementation of Ghana’s New Senior High School Curriculum: The Strategic Role of the Business Education Teacher in Driving Quality and Relevance." The new curriculum emphasizes competency-based learning, critical thinking, problem-solving, practical application, and flexible pathways.

However, GABET argues that teachers are finding it challenging to adapt to these changes due to insufficient training and the lack of essential teaching materials.

National Secretary Kojo Appiah Odei stated that Business Education teachers were not sufficiently involved in developing the new curriculum, leading to discrepancies between the old and new requirements. He also expressed concern over declining interest in Business Education, suggesting that students are discouraged from pursuing this field due to perceived limitations in further education opportunities.

Appiah emphasized that students should have equal opportunities and stressed the importance of allowing them to choose their desired programs.

Joseph Kwame Adamptey, GABET's National President, highlighted the lack of textbooks and teaching materials, as well as the insufficient training provided to teachers on the new curriculum. He stressed the need for the government to provide the necessary resources and improve teacher training to ensure the success of the new SHS curriculum.