Why College of Education Graduates in Ghana Can’t Teach in Secondary Schools.
Education in Ghana is structured to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for different levels of teaching. While Colleges of Education are vital in preparing educators for the classroom, their graduates are typically restricted to teaching at the basic school level (kindergarten, primary, and junior high school). But why is it that these graduates, despite their qualifications, are not allowed to teach in secondary schools? Let’s explore the reasons. Join us on WhatsApp for more updates https://chat.whatsapp.com/HPfqFbuSt7fA2MVV742k2V
Specialized Training for Basic Education
Colleges of Education in Ghana primarily focus on training teachers for basic education. The curriculum is specifically designed to prepare students to teach foundational subjects and manage the developmental needs of younger learners. Graduates are trained to handle a wide range of basic-level teaching methods, classroom management skills, and inclusive education strategies.
On the other hand, teaching at the secondary level often requires in-depth subject specialization. Secondary school teachers typically teach specific subjects like biology, history, or economics, which demand an advanced understanding of the content.
Qualification Levels Matter
Graduates from Colleges of Education traditionally obtain a Diploma in Basic Education (DBE) or, in recent times, a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in Basic Education. These qualifications are tailored to the basic education framework and do not align with the requirements for teaching at the secondary level.
Secondary school teaching, in contrast, often requires a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specialized field of study. Graduates from universities with subject-specific degrees, combined with a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) or a similar qualification, are typically preferred for secondary school positions.
Policy and Licensing Regulations
In Ghana, the education system and teacher licensing are governed by policies set by bodies like the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the National Teaching Council (NTC). These policies outline clear pathways for who can teach at various levels of education. College of Education graduates, unless they pursue further education or obtain additional qualifications, are considered licensed for basic education, not secondary schools.
Opportunities for Further Growth
It’s important to note that College of Education graduates are not permanently restricted to basic schools. Many choose to further their education by pursuing advanced degrees in specific subject areas or secondary education. With these qualifications, they can transition to teaching at the secondary school level.
This pathway highlights that the limitation is not necessarily a barrier but rather a stepping stone in a career that offers room for growth and specialization.
The distinction between basic and secondary education teaching roles in Ghana lies in the focus of training, qualification levels, and education policies. While College of Education graduates have their impact primarily at the basic level, further opportunities remain open for those who aspire to teach in secondary schools. This clear division ensures that teachers at every level are well-prepared for the unique demands of their students, contributing to the overall strength of Ghana’s education system.
