Pay teacher allowances now to boost student performance — Ntim Fordjour urges government
Former Deputy Education Minister Rev. John Ntim Fordjour has called on the government to urgently release funds to the Ministry of Education and clear all outstanding teacher allowances, arguing that doing so is critical to improving student performance nationwide. Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Fordjour emphasized that teachers must be properly motivated if the country expects better learning outcomes.
He warned against blaming teachers when students perform poorly, noting that without payment of allowances and adequate support, it is unfair to shift responsibility solely to educators. He said the government should collaborate with schools, including mission schools that consistently produce top-performing students, rather than confronting or penalizing teachers for systemic failures.
According to Fordjour, prompt payment of allowances and funding of the Education Ministry will contribute to stability and morale among teachers. Such measures will encourage committed teaching, reduce teacher absenteeism, and motivate educators to deliver quality lessons. He argued that performance metrics and test scores often reflect broader underlying challenges including under-resourced schools and delayed compensation for staff.
Advocates for education reform have widely welcomed Fordjour’s appeal. They note that Ghana continues to struggle with infrastructure constraints, resource shortages, and teacher welfare issues. Many suggest that ensuring timely payment of allowances should be part of a larger push to improve teacher conditions, invest in learning materials, and strengthen support for under-resourced schools.
Some analysts add that improving student outcomes requires holistic investment: teacher training, learning resources, classroom infrastructure, and stable compensation are all critical. Failure to address teacher welfare could undermine education reforms, regardless of policy changes or curriculum updates.
As the new academic year approaches, stakeholders hope the plea by Fordjour resonates with the Ministry of Education and the broader government. Clearing arrears and ensuring teacher allowances could mark a turning point, offering students across Ghana a stronger foundation for success.
The call underscores that education outcomes are not just a matter of student effort, but of systemic support and respect for educators who facilitate learning.
