The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG) have issued a strongly worded condemnation of Interior Minister Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka’s remarks regarding the potential use of forged WASSCE results by recruits into the security services. These comments, made during a ceremony to open classroom facilities at Asokore Mampong Roman Catholic School in Ashanti Region on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, have ignited a significant backlash within the education sector. The unions, collectively representing over 150,000 teachers across the country, have vehemently rejected the claims as an attempt to undermine the integrity of the WASSCE examination and the profession as a whole.
The unions, led by Thomas T. Musah, President of GNAT, Jacob Anaba, and King Ali Awudu, President of PRETAG, expressed profound concern over the minister’s statements, arguing that the allegations constitute an attack on teachers and the GES. According to the union’s joint statement, Mr. Muntaka’s remarks were presented as an attempt to shift the blame away from the GES, which is responsible for the integrity of the WASSCE examination. The unions emphasized that teachers have consistently adhered to established regulations and protocols, including completing National Service and holding valid NTC teaching licenses, all of which are subject to rigorous checks and audits by the institutions issuing these credentials. The unions further stated that recruitment into the education sector requires applicants to possess relevant educational qualifications, complete National Service, and hold a valid NTC teaching license. They explicitly rejected the notion that forged or doctored WASSCE certificates are being utilized to conceal fraudulent recruitment practices.
The union’s rejection is rooted in their commitment to upholding the profession’s standards. They reiterated their stance against any form of ridicule or discredit of teachers and the integrity of the education system. The unions urged Mr. Muntaka to retract his comments and issue a formal apology, stating that ‘We dare not fail’ – highlighting the government’s pledge to honour teachers’ promotion pay deals. The unions further cautioned that such statements could jeopardize the credibility of the education sector and undermine the public’s confidence in the qualifications of teachers. The statement emphasized the critical role teachers play in national development and underscored the importance of celebrating and supporting educators.
As a result of this controversy, the GES has announced a dedicated help desk to address outstanding salary arrears for teachers, demonstrating a proactive response to the concerns raised. The government has also committed to honouring promotion pay deals agreed upon with teachers, further solidifying the unions’ position and indicating a commitment to safeguarding the interests of the teaching profession.”
The controversy highlights a growing tension between the education sector and the ministry of education, particularly concerning the integrity of assessment and the perceived challenges to the legitimacy of the WASSCE examination. The unions have stated that they will continue to advocate for transparency and accountability within the education system, ensuring that all applicants are evaluated fairly and correctly. The situation underscores a significant challenge for the Ghanaian education landscape, requiring careful navigation of the relationship between the government, the education sector, and the public.
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Source: Adom Online
