The Weija Gbawe Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) Local Conference, held on March 18, 2025, at the ITS Conference Room within the Weija Gbawe Municipal Assembly Compound, served as a vital platform for stakeholders in the education sector to address critical issues and elect a new leadership team. The conference, marked by insightful speeches and a smooth electoral process, underscored the importance of collaboration, teacher welfare, and the creation of a conducive learning environment for students.
The conference commenced with an opening address by the outgoing chairman, Mr. Edward Nimako, who expressed his appreciation for the dedication of the attendees. His welcoming remarks set a collaborative tone for the day’s proceedings, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue and collective action in addressing the challenges facing the education sector. The subsequent keynote address, delivered by Hon. Jerry Ahmed Shaib, the Member of Parliament for Weija-Gbawe and Second Deputy Minority Whip, delved into the crucial theme of “Learning for Sustainable Futures: Attracting and Retaining Teachers for Quality Education and Union Participation.” He highlighted the pressing need to make the teaching profession more attractive by improving working conditions and fostering supportive environments for educators.
Reinforcing the theme of collaboration, Mr. Charles Odoom, the Municipal Director of Education, echoed the call for unity among stakeholders, stressing that a shared vision is paramount in tackling the challenges facing schools. He urged teachers to actively engage in professional development and embrace their pivotal role in shaping the future of education. Simultaneously, he appealed to the community to recognize and support the invaluable contributions of teachers in nurturing stimulating learning environments. The conference also benefited from the insights of Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor, Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), who brought attention to the detrimental effects of corporal punishment. His advocacy for the abolition of this practice and the adoption of non-violent disciplinary methods resonated with attendees, highlighting the importance of creating safe and respectful learning environments for all students.
Following the addresses, the conference transitioned to the election of new officers, overseen by Madam Emma Asante, Chairperson of the GNAT Election Committee. The outgoing leadership was officially dissolved, paving the way for the introduction of candidates who shared their visions for GNAT’s future. The elections proceeded efficiently and transparently, culminating in the selection of a new leadership team. Mr. Edward Nimako was re-elected as Chairman, demonstrating the continued confidence in his leadership. Other elected officials included Felix Dzanku as Secretary, Esther as Vice Chairperson, Josephine Adama Hammond as Vice Secretary, Cynthia Eddie Chapman as Treasurer, Joseph Odotei Odoi as Youth Coordinator, Faiza as GNATLAS Coordinator, Madam Anita Gyefour as Education Office Representative, and Emmanuel Kwaku Boateng as Basic School Coordinator.
In his acceptance speech, the newly elected Chairman, Mr. Edward Nimako, expressed his deep gratitude for the trust placed in him and his team. He reiterated their commitment to championing the welfare of GNAT members and working towards improved educational outcomes across the region. His speech emphasized the importance of collaboration between the newly elected leadership, teachers, and other stakeholders to achieve these goals. The conference concluded with a motion from the Chairman, emphasizing the shared responsibility of all involved in the education sector to ensure a brighter future for Ghana’s educational system. This motion underscored the collective effort required to address the issues raised throughout the conference and translate the insights gained into tangible improvements in education.
The Weija Gbawe GNAT Local Conference of 2025 proved to be a significant event, bringing together key figures to discuss critical issues and elect a new leadership team. The emphasis on collaboration, teacher welfare, and the creation of a positive learning environment for students highlights the commitment of GNAT and its stakeholders to improving the quality of education in Ghana. The smooth transition of leadership and the clear vision expressed by the newly elected officials bode well for the future of GNAT and its continued efforts to advocate for the betterment of education in the region. The conference served as a testament to the power of collective action and the dedication of educators and their partners in shaping a brighter future for Ghana’s educational landscape.
