Teacher licensure: Dr. Apaak dismisses claims of fee hike

Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, has dismissed claims that the government has increased teacher licensure examination fees for resit candidates.

Addressing stakeholders at the Ghana Teacher Prize 2025 Sponsors’ Appreciation Ceremony organised by the National Teaching Council, Tang Palace Hotel in Accra, Dr. Apaak described reports of a fee increment as inaccurate.

“Let me also clarify that reports suggesting an increase in licensure examination fees for those resitting the licensure exams in March are inaccurate,” he stated.

He assured teachers and trainees that no upward review had been implemented.

“The fees remain unchanged, and the government remains committed to ensuring fairness and accessibility within the system,” Dr. Apaak emphasised.

He further explained that the last adjustment to the registration fees occurred three years ago.

“In fact, the last time the registration fees were adjusted upward was in 2023,” he said.

Beyond the clarification on fees, the Deputy Minister highlighted reforms aimed at streamlining the licensure process and easing the transition from training into professional practice.

“The integration of the Ghana Teacher Licensure Examination into the final year of teacher education marks a significant reform,” he noted.

According to him, the policy change is intended to remove administrative bottlenecks that previously delayed certification after graduation.

“This ensures a smoother transition from training into professional practice and reduces delays in certification,” he added.

Dr. Apaak reiterated the government’s broader commitment to strengthening the teaching profession through regulatory and institutional reforms.

“As a government, we remain firmly committed to strengthening the teaching profession as the backbone of our education system,” he said.

He urged stakeholders to rely on official communication from the Ministry and relevant agencies regarding policy decisions affecting teachers.

The Deputy Minister maintained that reforms within the licensure framework are designed to promote standards, protect professional integrity and while preventing misinformation from creating anxiety among prospective and practising teachers.