We must honor tireless efforts of teachers, give them best salary – Dr. Apaak

The Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr. Clement Apaak has stated the Ghana teachers ought to be given the best of remuneration in the country.

Speaking on JoyFM current affairs program on Newsfile, the Builsa South lawmaker indicated that the presence of this esteemed panel today is a testament to the profound impact that teachers have had on their lives, by shaping them from relative obscurity into individuals of great worth.

According to him, they have not only enriched their families and communities but have also contributed significantly to the betterment of the nation and indeed the entire human race.

He indicated that ss someone who is not only the product of a teacher’s guidance but has also been deeply involved in academia until recently.

He said he can personally attest to the immeasurable value of education adding that he truly appreciate the value of education and the nation must acknowledge and honor the tireless efforts of teachers.

Dr. Apaak stated that in this regard, he’d like to emphasize the vital role that teachers play in our society, drawing inspiration from experiences in other parts of the world where educational systems are meticulously designed and effectively executed.

He stated that contrary to conventional wisdom, the most deserving group for recognition and remuneration should not be engineers, doctors, or architects, although these professions undeniably contribute significantly to society.

The Builsa South MP stated that instead, the true architects of these professions are the teachers who impart the knowledge and skills required for individuals to excel in these fields.

He added that when we examine the best practices in various countries, we find that teachers’ working conditions are consistently among the top priorities and it is puzzling that, while we strive for excellence in education, we often overlook the necessity of adequately motivating and supporting our teachers in terms of their work environment, compensation, and overall working conditions. This oversight constitutes a significant deficit in our approach.

The lawmaker stated that it is imperative that we reconsider this status quo, for it is unacceptable and far from being considered best practice. Why do we persist with a structure that fails to incentivize and empower our teachers to deliver their absolute best?

He added that although they are already performing admirably, there is untapped potential waiting to be unleashed and asked that what is hindering us as a nation and society from investing in our teachers as we should?

He further stated that if we genuinely recognize the pivotal role of teachers, their immeasurable value, and their indispensable contribution to our collective development, then we must go beyond the notion that their reward is solely in heaven. This belief is not only outdated but also part of the problem. The reward for their dedication and hard work must be realized here on Earth, in the tangible improvements to their quality of life.

The Builsa South lawmaker further stated teachers are not mere conduits of knowledge; they are fellow human beings who face the same challenges and hardships as the rest of us. They, too, endure the pains of economic downturns and suffer from the burdens of soaring inflation. Their dedication to nurturing the minds of future generations should not go unnoticed or unrewarded.

He added that it is high time that the nation acknowledge the profound impact teachers have on our lives and recognize that their contributions are fundamental to the progress of society.

According to him, “in our pursuit of excellence in education, we must prioritize the well-being of our educators. Properly motivated and supported teachers are more likely to inspire and educate the next generation effectively. It is not just a matter of remuneration but also of creating an environment that fosters innovation, creativity, and a passion for learning. When we invest in our teachers, we invest in the future of our nation.

“Furthermore, if we look at the experiences of countries that prioritize their teachers, we can see the positive ripple effects throughout society. When teachers are adequately compensated and provided with conducive working conditions, they are more likely to stay in the profession, which in turn leads to a stable and experienced educational workforce. This stability translates into better educational outcomes for students, ultimately benefiting the entire nation.

“In conclusion, it is time for us to reassess our priorities and give due recognition to the invaluable contributions of teachers. We must shift our focus from mere rhetoric to concrete actions that improve the lives and working conditions of educators. It is not enough to pay lip service to the importance of education; we must back our words with substantial investments in our teachers. By doing so, we not only honor the debt we owe to these dedicated professionals but also secure a brighter future for our children and our nation as a whole.”

Source: Today.com.gh