Alarm Raised as Over 6,000 Out Of 7,728 Teachers Fail Ghana’s Licensure Exam
In a concerning development, the Registrar of the Ghana Teacher Licensure Examination (GTLE), Dr. Christian Addai-Poku, has revealed that out of the 7,728 aspiring teachers who took the licensure examination last month, a staggering 6,481 candidates failed to pass. This failure rate amounts to approximately 84% of the total candidates.
The GTLE was introduced in 2018 as a means to license teaching practitioners and ensure a higher standard of education in Ghana. The exam assesses candidates in numeracy, literacy, and professional skills. However, in an effort to enhance the examination’s effectiveness, the format and content are set to change in the near future.
Dr. Addai-Poku emphasized that the candidates who failed this time would have one more opportunity to re-take the exam later in the year before the reforms are implemented. However, those with a diploma would need to upgrade themselves to acquire a first degree before they can re-sit the exam.
The forthcoming changes to the licensure examination are expected to focus on candidates’ specific areas of specialty. For instance, those aspiring to teach geography would undergo additional testing in that subject. This targeted approach aims to ensure that teachers possess not only general pedagogical knowledge but also specialized expertise in their chosen fields.
The high failure rate in the recent licensure exam highlights the importance of improving the quality of teacher education in Ghana. It underscores the need for educational institutions to provide comprehensive and rigorous training to prospective teachers, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the profession.
The Ghanaian government’s introduction of teacher licensing and continuous professional development reflects its commitment to enhancing the professional standing and status of teachers in the country. However, it is crucial to address the underlying issues contributing to the high failure rate and take proactive measures to improve teacher preparation programs.
As the education sector continues to evolve, it is imperative that all stakeholders work collaboratively to ensure that Ghana’s future teachers are adequately equipped to deliver quality education to the nation’s youth.
