Introduction

Ghana’s Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, has delivered a strong commitment to improve the financial security of lecturers and teachers after retirement. Speaking at the 7th Quadrennial National Conference of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) in Accra, he confirmed that the federal government will review and revise the national pension system to address long-standing challenges and enhance benefits. This announcement comes amid broader concerns about the quality of education and student performance, particularly in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

The minister’s remarks signal a significant policy shift aimed at safeguarding the welfare of educators while also spotlighting the need for systemic improvements in teaching and learning. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the developments, their implications, and what they mean for teachers, retirees, and the education sector.

Key Points

Background

Pension System in Ghana

Ghana’s pension framework is governed by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) under Act 766. The system includes a contributory scheme where employees and employers contribute to a pension fund, with benefits paid out at retirement. Over the years, concerns have been raised about the adequacy of benefits, administrative bottlenecks, and the impact of economic fluctuations on pension values.

For teachers and lecturers, who often serve long careers in public service, the security of a stable and sufficient pension is crucial. Recent calls for reform have focused on improving the lump sum component, which retirees receive upon leaving service, and ensuring that pensions keep pace with inflation and cost of living.

GNAT and the Education Sector

The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) is a key professional body representing teachers across the country. Its quadrennial conferences serve as platforms to discuss policy, welfare, and pedagogical issues affecting the teaching profession. The 7th conference, held in January 2026, brought together educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to address pressing challenges in education.

GNAT has long advocated for better working conditions, improved remuneration, and enhanced retirement benefits for teachers. The minister’s address at this event underscores the government’s recognition of these concerns and its commitment to collaborative solutions.

WASSCE Performance Concerns

The West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) is a critical benchmark for secondary education in Ghana and the wider West African region. Poor performance in recent years has prompted national debate about the quality of instruction, curriculum alignment, and student preparedness. Minister Iddrisu’s remarks reflect a growing emphasis on ensuring that students not only acquire knowledge but can also apply it effectively in real-world contexts.

Analysis

Pension Revision: Implications and Expectations

The proposed review of Act 766 is expected to bring several benefits to retirees. By addressing institutional challenges, the government aims to streamline the administration of pension benefits and reduce delays. Enhancing the lump sum component will provide retirees with greater immediate financial flexibility, which is particularly important in a context where healthcare and living costs are rising.

From a policy perspective, a pension revision aligns with broader goals of social protection and human capital development. Secure retirement benefits can motivate current educators and attract talent to the teaching profession. Moreover, it signals the government’s commitment to honoring the contributions of public servants.

However, successful implementation will depend on effective coordination between the Ministry of Education, SSNIT, and other relevant agencies. Transparent communication with teachers and clear timelines for the revision process will be essential to build trust and ensure smooth execution.

WASSCE and Teaching Quality

Minister Iddrisu’s comments on WASSCE performance highlight a critical issue: the gap between knowledge acquisition and its application. While teachers play a central role, the challenge is multifaceted. It involves curriculum design, assessment methods, teacher training, and the learning environment.

The minister’s call for honest reflection encourages a collaborative approach to improving outcomes. Focusing on critical thinking, problem-solving, and clear communication can help students perform better not only in exams but also in future academic and professional settings.

The mention of the double-track system points to structural factors affecting education quality. Reduced contact hours between teachers and students can impact the depth of instruction and student engagement. Addressing this requires a balance between managing enrollment pressures and maintaining educational standards.

Policy and Leadership Context

The involvement of President John Dramani Mahama in these reforms underscores the political priority being placed on education and social welfare. The administration’s support for pension revision and education quality initiatives reflects a broader agenda of investing in human development and social equity.

In the context of Ghana’s development goals, these measures contribute to building a more resilient and capable workforce. They also align with international best practices that emphasize lifelong learning, teacher support, and social protection.

Practical Advice

For Teachers and Educators

• Stay informed about the pension revision process by following official updates from the Ministry of Education and SSNIT.
• Participate in professional development programs that enhance critical thinking and application-based teaching methods.
• Engage with GNAT and other professional bodies to voice concerns and contribute to policy discussions.
• Document and share effective classroom strategies that promote student understanding and problem-solving skills.
• Encourage students to practice applying concepts to real-life scenarios through projects and discussions.

For School Administrators

• Review timetables and teaching schedules to maximize contact hours, especially in double-track schools.
• Support teachers with resources and training focused on active learning and assessment techniques.
• Foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement among staff.
• Monitor student performance data to identify areas needing targeted intervention.
• Advocate for adequate funding and infrastructure to support quality education delivery.

For Parents and Guardians

• Encourage children to ask questions and think critically about what they learn in school.
• Provide a supportive home environment that values education and reading.
• Stay engaged with teachers and school activities to understand your child’s progress.
• Discuss real-world applications of school subjects to make learning more relevant.
• Support initiatives that improve teacher welfare and school conditions.

For Policymakers and Stakeholders

• Ensure the pension revision process is transparent, inclusive, and well-communicated.
• Allocate adequate resources to address infrastructure and staffing gaps in schools.
• Review the double-track system’s impact and explore alternatives that balance access and quality.
• Invest in teacher training programs that emphasize modern pedagogical approaches.
• Strengthen monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track education outcomes.

FAQ

Conclusion

Minister Haruna Iddrisu’s address at the GNAT conference marks a significant moment for Ghana’s education sector. The commitment to revise the pension system demonstrates a tangible effort to safeguard the welfare of educators, recognizing their vital role in national development. At the same time, the focus on WASSCE performance and teaching quality highlights the need for continuous improvement in how knowledge is delivered and applied.

These initiatives, if implemented effectively, can strengthen the teaching profession, enhance student outcomes, and build public confidence in the education system. Success will depend on collaboration, adequate resourcing, and sustained commitment from all stakeholders.

For teachers, students, and families, the coming months will be crucial as policies take shape and actions are taken to turn these assurances into meaningful change.