The Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU) of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) recently hosted the 1st Youth, 8th Women, and 13th Regional Quadrennial Delegate Conference in Takoradi, Ghana.
This event served as a platform for diverse stakeholders to address crucial issues within the country's education system.
Under the theme "Fostering Partnership for Equitable Education Delivery in Ghana; The Role of TEWU," the conference provided valuable insights and perspectives on how to enhance education in the nation.
The conference began with a prayer led by a volunteer, setting the tone for the event.
Attendees enthusiastically chanted the TEWU mantra, "TEWU WOMEN," emphasizing the importance of knowledge and unity.
Notably, the Metro Director of Education received a standing ovation upon her early arrival, and the program officially commenced at 11:42, following the singing of the TEWU women's convocational song.
The introduction of dignitaries followed suit, with Jessica Susanna Andam, the Regional Chairperson, extending a warm welcome to all attendees. She emphasized the significance of learning and networking during the conference.
Roger Ayim, the youth chairperson, stressed the need for youth to continually upgrade themselves, recognizing their pivotal role in TEWU's future. He expressed gratitude to the organizers for their efforts.
Madam Salamatu Mahama Braimah, the Second National Vice-chairperson of TEWU, highlighted the indispensable role of non-teaching staff in supporting teaching staff.
She emphasized that the presence of non-teaching staff is pivotal for effective teaching and learning.
Rebecca Ama Yankson, the National Chairperson of the TEWU women’s committee, shared valuable insights during her address:
- She encouraged continuous education for personal development beyond initial employment.
- She advocated for increased women's participation in various fields, underscoring the transformative impact of even one woman in male-dominated environments.
- Yankson emphasized the importance of digital literacy and entrepreneurship for women's financial independence.
- She recognized the potential for non-teaching staff to transition to teaching roles, emphasizing the unique contributions of both roles.
Yankson concluded by urging attendees to prioritize Breast Cancer Awareness Month and undergo regular health check-ups.
TEWU National & Regional Executives
The National Chairman, Brother Ambrose Y. Kwadzodz, encouraged youth to be diligent and humble, emphasizing the transformative power of education and self-improvement. He stressed the importance of active participation in partnerships and harnessing ICT for personal development.
Mark Korankye Denkyira, the General Regional Secretary of TEWU, emphasized the value of knowledge as the source of power. He urged youth to prioritize knowledge acquisition, adapt to modern technology, and not neglect personal development for family responsibilities.
Denkyira also advocated for improved working conditions for non-teaching staff, including annual medical reviews without payment.
He expressed confidence in non-teaching staff receiving the Continuous Professional Development Allowance (P.D.A) in the coming months.
In an exclusive interview, Denkyira elaborated on the conference's structure, highlighting separate youth and women's conferences preceding the main event. He reiterated the importance of equitable education and partnership among stakeholders.
Denkyira emphasized that equitable education in Ghana means ensuring education as a fundamental right for all children, regardless of their background or gender.
To achieve this goal, he called for collaboration among all stakeholders, including government, education administrators, parents, teachers, and non-teaching staff.
The keynote address was delivered by Mrs. Nelly Coleman, the Metro Director of Education, who highlighted education as the cornerstone for building an equitable and just society.
Coleman underscored the pivotal role of non-teaching staff in the education system.
Mrs. Coleman outlined key aspects of equitable education, including access to free compulsory primary education, closing achievement gaps among different student and worker groups, and promoting inclusive practices.
She emphasized the need for fair resource allocation, individualized support, and cultural competencies to address diverse needs.
Mrs. Coleman concluded by thanking TEWU for supporting free senior high school education and pledged the Ghana Education Service's partnership with educational unions.
Brother Emmanuel Kusi the Regional Industrial Relations Officer in Charge of Western and Western North Regions of TEWU, called on the Government /GES to employ more non-teaching staff by offering opportunities to youth and women since some of our members have retired without replacement and which has resulted in members not enjoying their annual leaves due to the demands of the double track system.
In summary, the TEWU conference aimed to promote equitable education delivery in Ghana through partnerships and the empowerment of non-teaching staff, women, and youth. Attendees and speakers emphasized the importance of education, personal development, and collaboration among stakeholders to achieve this critical goal.
Loading...