I am deeply saddened as a professional teacher by recent developments affecting students in Ghana’s colleges of education and newly trained teachers.

Many of us entered the teaching profession because graduates of colleges of education received immediate employment after completing their training. This arrangement existed for many years. The current government promised to maintain automatic posting, yet two successive batches of trained teachers are still waiting for placement.

These young teachers were given promises that have not been fulfilled. It is painful to see former students whom we encouraged to enter the profession now working at washing bays, selling products and accepting jobs unrelated to their qualifications.

They completed four years of university education with the expectation of serving Ghana as professional teachers. What are we doing to our young graduates?

As a teacher and mentor, I feel deeply disappointed when I see trained teachers unemployed or struggling to survive in jobs that do not reflect their education and professional preparation.

The difficulties facing teacher trainees extend beyond employment. The poor feeding situation in our colleges of education is another serious concern. The previous government paid teacher trainee allowances while providing three meals each day. Today, students receive one inadequate meal.

If the government no longer has the resources to feed teacher trainees, it should communicate this openly so students and their families are able to plan.

The teacher licensure examination is another issue that demands attention. It was introduced to certify teachers and strengthen the professional standing of Ghanaian educators, including those seeking teaching opportunities outside the country.

During the 2024 election campaign, the current government criticised the examination and promised to abolish it. The President argued that it made little sense for trained teachers to complete college and later sit for another professional examination.

Yet the examination remains in place. Graduates still write it after leaving college, and the fees have increased. What happened to the campaign promise?

Teacher trainees and newly trained teachers deserve honesty, dignity and responsible leadership. Government must address the posting delays, communicate clearly about feeding arrangements and state its final position on the licensure examination.

The future of Ghana’s education system depends on the quality, motivation and treatment of its teachers. A country that neglects its teacher trainees and abandons newly trained teachers weakens the foundation of its own future.

By Frank Yaw Owusu Bimpeh