Axim: Mr Herbert Kuah-Dickson, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Nzema-East, has assured teachers in the municipality of the assembly's commitment to providing them with accommodation as a means to address the rural-urban drift in the teaching profession. This announcement was made during a Teachers' Awards ceremony held in Axim in the Western Region, where 25 outstanding teachers were recognized for their exceptional contributions to quality education in the area.
According to Ghana News Agency, the awards included four motorbikes, deep freezers, flat-screen television sets, and cash prizes. Mr Stephen Mensah of Kwame Nkrumah Senior High School was named the overall best teacher, receiving a cash prize of GHc10,000.00, a motorbike, and a plaque for his remarkable performance in the educational field. Mr Kuah-Dickson also mentioned that future award ceremonies would focus on addressing accommodation issues for teachers, which remains a significant challenge for professionals posted to the area.
Mr Kofi Arko-Nokoe, the Member of Parliament for Evalue Adjomoro-Gwira, highlighted the significance of this event as the first collaborative effort between the MP's office and the Municipal Assembly to honor teachers for their dedication to quality education. With a background in teaching, Mr Arko-Nokoe expressed his understanding of the challenges faced by educators and emphasized the role they play in shaping the human resource base of the economy. He also announced plans to extend such awards to other sectors, including healthcare and security services, to motivate professionals across the board.
Mr Nathaniel Kofi Affum, the Municipal Director of Education, addressed the teacher deficit in the municipality, particularly in rural communities. He noted that some basic schools, which should have at least 15 teachers, are operating with less than four, and in some instances, the kindergarten department has only one trained teacher. Despite these challenges, some teachers have continued to excel, warranting recognition through this awards initiative.
Mr Stephen Mensah, the overall best teacher, emphasized the importance of integrating critical thinking, digital literacy, communication, and problem-solving skills in modern education. He cited challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, teacher shortages, and the need for tertiary institutions in the municipality. Mr Mensah also echoed the vision of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah in leveraging education as a tool for national progress.
Awulae Attibrukusu III, the Paramount Chief of the Lower Axim Traditional Area, who chaired the event, praised the initiative and expressed hope that such recognition would motivate teachers to enhance student performance. He emphasized the need for improved educational outcomes in the municipality and commended the awardees for their efforts in advancing education.