The Deputy Minister of Education, Dr Clement Abas Apaak, has honoured a dedicated teacher, Yussif Abdul Fatawu, with a cash donation of GH¢10,000 in recognition of his unwavering commitment to education after serving in the conflict-prone Bawku municipality for almost two decades despite persistent insecurity.
The minister said the honour was in recognition of Mr Fatawu's exceptional sacrifice in remaining at post while many public sector workers, including teachers and nurses, left the municipality because of the protracted conflict.
Presenting the donation to him last Monday in Bolgatanga, Dr Apaak described the teacher as a true national hero whose dedication deserved public recognition and appreciation.
"We always look too far for heroes. But if we look closer, we live with heroes every day," he said.
He noted that although the conflict had affected many public institutions in Bawku, Mr Fatawu had remained committed to his pupils and continued to teach under extremely difficult circumstances.
Heroic sacrifice
Dr Apaak said public servants were expected to serve not only during peaceful periods but also in difficult times when communities needed them most.
"To have come across the story of a teacher who has stayed and taught in an environment where many flee for almost 20 years and is still teaching there, I felt this was a story that needed amplification," he said.
He explained that the donation was made from his personal resources as a token of appreciation for the teacher's patriotism and selfless service.
Heroic
"What he has done is heroic. Public servants are expected to sacrifice even in bad times, sometimes at their peril. By the grace of God and through his own determination, he has survived and continued teaching for many years. I thought I should recognise him," he stated.
He further commended other teachers, nurses and public servants who continue to serve in difficult environments across the country, assuring them that their sacrifices do not go unnoticed.
Teacher pledges continued service
Receiving the honour, Mr Fatawu expressed gratitude for the recognition and pledged to continue serving as a role model for fellow teachers.
"It is a privilege and an honour for me to be here at this moment as a teacher. I hope to continue to sacrifice and serve as a role model for my colleagues as we continue serving Mother Ghana and our people," he said.
He said every effort being made by teachers in Bawku was aimed at securing a brighter future for children and generations yet unborn.
Pray
"We hope and pray that the peace that has eluded us for some time will, Insha Allah, return in the near future so that we can all live together in harmony in our dear town," he said.
Background
Mr Fatawu's story first gained national attention following a special report by GBC Upper East Regional Correspondent, Peter Agengre, which highlighted the extraordinary commitment of a teacher who refused to abandon his pupils despite years of conflict in Bawku.
