Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana, Prof Ransford Gyampo has called for the strengthing and prioritisation of the education systems in teacher training colleges instead of a licensure examination.

Speaking on Newsfile, on Saturday, he said he did not understand why the exams have been introduced when there were already existing problems in the training schools that need fixing to improve the quality of education and graduate students.

“I have been questioning the rationale for the introduction of the licensure exams, what did it seek to achieve? If for some reason we do not believe in the kind of training that is given at the various teacher centres, why don't we strengthen these trainings, improve their infrastructure and ensure that they are able to deliver effectively on their mandate,” Prof Gyampo said.

He added that the licensure examination could be added to the exams students take in the training centres ensuring that once a teacher graduates, they already have the certification to be in a classroom.

“I do not see the essence of always being in the rush to create structures when problems that exist can be fixed,” he said.

This comes after the National Teaching Council revealed that about 83.5% of candidates failed the teacher licensure exams held in May 2023.

The NTC noted that out of the 7,728 students who participated in the re-sit exams, only 1,277 passed.

The assessment in numeracy, literacy and professional knowledge is to enable qualified students to get a professional license, while attracting young graduates with the required professional knowledge and skills to teach.

Following the failure, the Registrar of the National Teaching Council (NTC), Christian Addai-Poku, told JoyNews that the teachers who failed would be given a last chance to re-sit.

Meanwhile, addressing Prof Gyampo’s concern on Newsfile, Dr Addai-Poku indicated that the exams are serving as a check to ensure that unqualified individuals are not allowed in the classroom.

He added that students who failed the exams are distance and sandwich students of the various training colleges.

Dr Addai-Poku stated that he believes the students of these institutions are victims “because the institutions are supposed to train them and bring them out well refined and fit for purpose because you have admitted people for a programme, a professional programme.”