Former President John Mahama has pledged to eliminate the Teacher Licensure Exams if the National Democratic Congress (NDC) returns to office after the 2024 election. Some tutors in the country’s colleges of education have expressed concerns about the method of writing the licensure exams, although others argue that the exams have elevated the status of Ghanaian teachers internationally.

One tutor at the Akrokeri College of Education, George Ohene Bekye, emphasized that while the licensure examination has raised the status of Ghanaian teachers and enabled them to pursue opportunities abroad, the method and mode of writing the exams are problematic. He suggested that the former president engage with teacher unions and the National Teaching Council to address the challenges with the current system rather than outright cancellation.

George Acquah, an Executive Member of the Coalition for Concerned Teachers, also suggested that the licensure exam should be incorporated into the main examination that teachers write, ensuring better preparation and avoiding mass failure.

Former President Mahama’s proposal to eliminate the licensure exams has sparked discussions about the impact on teacher recognition and international opportunities for Ghanaian educators.