Licensure examination must be devoid of politicisation
The Ghana Teacher Licensure Examination (GTLE) is an examination conducted by the National Teaching Council (NTC) in Ghana.
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The purpose of the examination is to assess teacher's knowledge, skills, and competencies to ensure that they meet the necessary standards for effective teaching.
The GTLE is designed to ensure that individuals entering the teaching profession meet the required standards of professionalism and competency.
It helps in maintaining a high standard of teaching quality in the country.
Successful completion of the GTLE is a prerequisite for obtaining a teaching license in Ghana.
This license is essential for individuals seeking employment as teachers in public and private schools.
The examination contributes to standardising the quality of education by ensuring that all teachers, regardless of their academic backgrounds, have a common baseline of professional knowledge and skills.
The GTLE is part of a broader framework for continuous professional development for teachers.
It encourages teachers to stay updated on educational practices and pedagogical approaches.
The examination assesses the competency of teachers in various subject areas and educational principles.
This helps in identifying areas where teachers may need additional training and support.
By requiring teachers to undergo a licensure examination, the teaching profession gains recognition as a serious and respected field that requires a certain level of expertise.
Using pre-service teachers to win public sympathy is a no-go area and I think the former President should respect teaching as a profession.
The former President, John Dramani Mahama, is a well-known communication expert, and I suggest he leaves this discussion for educational experts to handle.
His submissions simply depict that he virtually has no idea when it comes to the teacher professionalism process.
His submission was flawed when he queried the quality of teacher training in Ghana.
Does he mean to say that other professions that take licensure examinations have problems with their initial training?
Nurses, doctors, architects, lawyers, chartered bankers, etc.?
The GTLE is a positive policy that should be embraced by all.
It standardises teacher quality.
It aims to establish a common standard for all teachers in Ghana.
By testing teachers' knowledge, pedagogical skills, and aptitude for teaching, the examination helps ensure that educators possess the necessary qualifications and competencies required to effectively educate students.
The examination serves as a platform for professional growth and development, while encouraging teachers to continuously update their knowledge and teaching practices, ensuring they remain current with the latest educational trends and methodologies.
The GTLE promotes accountability within the teaching profession.
It holds teachers accountable for their performance, encouraging them to strive for excellence and maintain high standards of teaching.
This can ultimately benefit students by ensuring they receive quality education.
By implementing the GTLE, the National Teaching Council (NTC aims to enhance public confidence in the teaching profession.
When teachers undergo a rigorous examination process, it instills trust in the public that qualified and competent individuals are entrusted with the responsibility of educating the nation's children.
The GTLE aligns Ghana with international best practices in teacher assessment and licensure.
It aligns Ghana with global standards and improves its standing within the international education community.
It is important to note that while the GTLE has its merits, there may also be criticisms and challenges associated with its implementation.
It's essential to continually evaluate and improve upon such policies to ensure they effectively serve their intended purposes while addressing any concerns or limitations raised by stakeholders.
Mr Mahama should apologise to teachers for looking down on teaching as a profession and a dumping site for any individual who seeks job opportunities.
The writer is a teacher.
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