Richard W. Tiimob, a teacher of the Savelugu Senior High School in the Northern region, has been named 'Ghana’s Most Outstanding Teacher' at the Ghana Teacher Prize 2025, held at the University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho in the Volta region.

The award, which includes a three-bedroom house, celebrates his exceptional contribution to education and his unwavering commitment to transforming lives through teaching.

In his acceptance speech, Mr Tiimob expressed deep gratitude to God, his family, students, colleagues, and school leadership.

He said, “Teaching has always been more than a profession for me; it is a calling to inspire, mentor, and transform lives. This achievement reflects the collective efforts of my students, colleagues, school leadership, and all stakeholders who support quality education. Let us continue to innovate, elevate, and inspire every learner so we can build a Ghana full of ambition and excellence.”

The award ceremony, themed “Elevating the Status of Teachers for Quality Education,” brought together dignitaries, educators, and stakeholders from across the country.

Dr Christian Addai-Opoku, Registrar of the National Teaching Council (NTC), warmly welcomed Her Excellency, Prof Jane Nana Opoku-Agyemang, Vice President of Ghana, emphasising that her presence affirmed the government’s commitment to a motivated teaching profession as a cornerstone of national development.

Dr Addai-Opoku highlighted the significance of World Teachers’ Day, set aside by UNESCO and the ILO to commemorate the 1966 recommendations, noting Ghana’s unique tradition of combining reflection with a grand celebration of teachers’ invaluable contributions.

He reiterated that elevating the conditions, recognition, and professional development of teachers directly strengthens the foundation of quality education for every Ghanaian child.

“The Ghana Teacher Prize, formerly known as the Priscilla Award, was instituted in 1985 by the Ministry of Education to recognise teachers’ immense contributions to national development.

In 2018, it was rebranded to align with global standards, positioning Ghanaian teachers on the international stage and affirming that they can compete with the best in the world,” Dr Addai-Opoku said.

Rev. Isaac Owusu, President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), stressed that teachers are not only classroom instructors but also community leaders, counsellors, and nation-builders.

He called on the government and other stakeholders to address critical issues affecting teachers, including delays in salary payments for over 6,000 newly recruited teachers, disparities in the Single Spine Salary Structure, and the need for improved accommodation and professional development opportunities.

“This year’s theme reminds us that a qualified, supported, and motivated teacher is central to achieving educational goals. When the teacher succeeds, the nation succeeds,” Rev. Owusu stated.

The 2025 celebration was made possible through the support of the Government of Ghana, private sector organisations, development partners, teacher unions, and the National Teaching Council.

On behalf of the NTC, Dr Addai-Opoku congratulated all nominees and award winners, noting that they are the torchbearers shaping the character, knowledge, and the future of Ghana.

As the ceremony concluded, Mr Tiimob encouraged his fellow educators to continue uplifting every learner, innovate, and strive for excellence. His message underscored the enduring role of teachers in shaping the nation’s future.