Mr Kingsley Akum, a teacher at the Kumasi Technical Institute in the Ashanti Region, has been adjudged the 2009 National Best Teacher. His award package included GH¢60,000 to build himself a house, a laptop, modem and a set of computer and printer for his school. The award was presented to him by the Vice President John Dramani Mahama supported by the Education Minister Alex Tettey-Enyo and the Eastern Regional minister, Samuel Ofosu Ampofo. Mr Akum completed courses in electrical installation at the Kumasi Technical Institute in 1991. He further pursued a course in electrical engineering parts (I, II, III) at the Kumasi Polytechnic, after which he obtained a Bachelor of Education at the University of Education, Winneba, in Technical and Vocational Education, in 2000. After his university education, Mr Akum went back to the Kumasi Technical Institute where he has since taught. In 2003, he won a German/Ghana government scholarship to undertake a one-year course in electronic controlled engineering in Germany. Mr Akum was awarded for his hard work and dedication to the teaching profession. The award for the 1st runner-up went to Mr Addai Samuel of Suame Methodist JHS. For his prize, Mr Samuel won a brand new Nissan 4x4 hard body pick-up with a one-year comprehensive insurance, a laptop and a printer for himself, and a desktop computer with a printer for his school. The award for the 1st Runner-Up was donated by telecoms giant, MTN Ghana. Mr Peter Amponsah of the Akumpuni L/A Primary School in the Brong Ahafo Region won the 2nd runner-up award, taking home a Saloon car, a laptop, modem, and a set of computer and printer for his school. There were about 84 award winners at the ceremony which was held in Koforidua in the Eastern Region. By: Dorcas Efe Mensah /myjoyonline.com