Former Education Minister, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, is calling on the government to reconsider its move to abolish the Teacher Licensure Examination. While acknowledging the current administration’s authority to implement policy changes, Dr. Adutwum emphasized that such decisions must serve the broader national interest.
His comments come in response to a recent directive from the Ministry of Education to the National Teaching Council (NTC), instructing them to coordinate with the Registrar and organize a final licensure examination by August 30 under the current framework.
Dr. Adutwum highlighted that the licensure examination began as a pilot under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and was later expanded into a comprehensive program by the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Speaking to Citi News on Monday, July 21, 2025, the Bosomtwe Member of Parliament stressed the exam’s importance in measuring professional competency, especially for teachers seeking international teaching opportunities.
He noted, “They are in power now, and they have the authority. If they want to change it, it is between them and the good people of Ghana. As a teacher, I believe that, just like accountants and lawyers, teachers must also be licensed so that our respect will go through the roof.”
Dr. Adutwum further stated that while he is not promoting teacher migration, a licensure certificate gives Ghanaian educators the flexibility to work abroad, such as in the UK, where they can enter classrooms with recognized credentials.
Adding to the concerns, Kofi Asare, Executive Director of Africa Education Watch, has also cautioned against eliminating the licensure exams. He emphasized the examination’s crucial role in upholding quality standards within the country's education system.