Distance learning graduates not barred from teaching at SHS – Education Ministry

The Ministry of Education has clarified that there is no policy barring teachers who earned their certificates through distance learning from teaching in public schools.

A statement from the Ministry said it was responding to “discussions in the media over the past few days.”

The Ministry wishes to clarify that there is no policy from either the Ministry of Education or Ghana Education Service which disqualifies teachers who earned their certificates through Distance Learning, popularly referred to as Sandwich Programs from teaching in public schools in the country.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Ministry said a degree in a subject area “whether through Distance or campus program, qualifies one to teach in a Senior High School, in addition to meeting other requirements set by National Teaching Council and Ghana Education Service.”

“The official position is that a degree in Early Childhood Education or Basic Education whether through Sandwich or Campus programs, does not constitute eligibility to teach at a Senior High School,” the statement noted.

Find below the full statement

APPARENT CONFUSION IN THE MEDIA REGARDING QUALIFICATION FOR TEACHING AT SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

The Ministry has followed discussions in the media over the past few days regarding qualifications required of individuals who are teaching or would like to teach at the Senior High School level.

The Ministry wishes to clarify that there is no policy from either the Ministry of Education or Ghana Education Service which disqualifies teachers who earned their certificates through Distance Learning, popularly referred to as Sandwich Programs from teaching in public schools in the country.

The official position is that a degree in Early Childhood Education or Basic Education whether through Sandwich or Campus programs, does not constitute eligibility to teach at a Senior High School.

Over the years the impression has been created that any degree qualifies one to teach at the Senior High school even if the degree (such as Early Childhood or Basic Education) is tailored for teaching at the Kindergaten or primary levels. That is not accurate.

For the avoidance of doubt, degree in a subject area whether through Distance or campus program, qualifies one to teach in a Senior High School, in addition to meeting other requirements set by National Teaching Council and Ghana Education Service.

The Ministry appreciates the continuous efforts and contributions by teachers across the country.

Signed
Vincent Ekow Assafuah
Public Relations Officer