The fallen noble profession: The sad tale of the Ghanaian teacher

Ghanaian teachers, once held in high regard, now face ridicule and disdain. Their profession, once a source of pride, has become an object of embarrassment, especially among the youth who have become successful. Teachers are often seen as a source of poverty, unable to provide for their families. Women teachers are viewed as a financial burden, while men struggle to be the sole breadwinners for their households.

Many now see teaching as a temporary position, rather than a career path. The children they nurture often mock them, questioning if they are still teaching. Teachers themselves often live paycheck to paycheck, using overdrafts to make ends meet. Their profession has become synonymous with frugality, due to their limited means. This economic hardship has led to a social stigma, with teachers being mocked for their humble attire and socio-economic status.

While public school teachers face one set of challenges, those in private schools face even greater difficulties, receiving salaries that are barely enough to sustain them. These teachers work the hardest and are often under constant supervision, yet receive minimal pay with no job security or pension. The shame is most evident at home, where teachers contribute the least during family gatherings, in contrast to other family members who contribute significantly more despite having less formal education.

This situation has led to feelings of regret and humiliation. Despite providing education to others, teachers themselves often struggle to meet their own basic needs, such as paying rent and funding their children's education. The promise of a heavenly reward, as taught by missionaries, seems to have replaced the pride once associated with the teaching profession.

The government's response to these issues is seen as inadequate, with many teachers feeling that their reward in life is merely a mention in heaven. The government's reliance on annual Best Teacher awards is criticized as insufficient. The article calls for a national reflection on the importance of teachers, advocating for a living wage, better working conditions, and genuine societal respect for teachers.

Without this change, Ghana risks losing its brightest minds to other professions, leaving classrooms filled with individuals who lack motivation and inspiration. The nation's future, it argues, is deeply tied to the respect and support it extends to its teachers, as without them, there can be no advancement in any field.