Thirty-two exceptional teachers from the Assin South district were honoured for their outstanding contributions to education at an awards ceremony held at Nyankomasi Ahenkro in the Central Region.

The highlight of the event was the award of a salon car to Paul Afoakwah Okyere, who was named the Best Teacher in the Assin South district.

The first runner-up received a motorbike, while the second runner-up was awarded a set of furniture. Other prizes included laptops, refrigerators, televisions, washing machines, plaques, certificates, and sports jerseys.

The Assin South Teachers Awards were sponsored by the Deputy Minister of Education and Member of Parliament for Assin South, John Ntim Fordjour, with support from UNESCO, the Ghana Education Service Occupational Pension Scheme (GESOPS), Right to Play, and Sabre Education.

The event was attended by dignitaries including the Central Regional Director of Education, Emmanuel Essuman, the National President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Rev. Isaac Owusu, and the Board Chairman of the National Teaching Council, Dr. Anis Haffer. Also present were Nananom, religious leaders, headteachers, teachers, non-teaching staff, students, parents, and community members.

In his address, Mr. Fordjour urged teachers to embrace postings to rural areas, stressing the critical role educators play in nurturing children in underserved communities.

He pointed out that rural areas often suffer from a shortage of experienced teachers due to a lack of resources, but he emphasised that teachers' involvement in these communities could unlock the potential of young learners, ensuring they receive quality education.

He also praised teachers for their dedication to shaping the future of the nation, noting their contribution in nurturing future professionals such as professors, doctors, lawyers, engineers, scientists, and journalists.

Rev. Isaac Owusu, National President of GNAT, also addressed the gathering, urging teachers to uphold high moral standards and adhere strictly to the professional code of conduct.

He expressed concern over rising instances of misconduct, such as teachers arriving at school intoxicated or engaging in inappropriate relationships with students. He stressed that such behaviour undermines the integrity of the profession and tarnishes the image of educators.

However, he also commended those teachers who have demonstrated excellence, recognising their efforts as instrumental in nurturing the next generation of leaders.

The Central Regional Director of Education, Mr. Emmanuel Essuman, praised teachers for their significant role in shaping the future of children. He described teaching as a noble profession that not only imparts knowledge but also ignites curiosity and guides students on their journey of discovery.

He urged teachers to exhibit exemplary moral character and reminded them that their influence reaches far beyond the classroom, shaping how students engage with the world.

Hon. Felicia Ntrakwah Amissah, the District Chief Executive (DCE) of Assin South, expressed her delight at the organisation of this year’s awards ceremony, describing it as the most remarkable so far.

She praised the initiative as a powerful motivation for educators in the district and encouraged them to continue their hard work to improve the quality of education.

Mr. Paul Afoakwah Okyere, the district’s Best Teacher, expressed his gratitude and surprise at receiving the top honour.

He thanked the MP and the sponsors for their support and praised his students for pushing him to continually improve. He also encouraged his fellow teachers to maintain high standards, as they are not only imparting knowledge but also shaping the character, values, and attitudes of their students.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to work together in enhancing education in the district.