The Weija Gbawe Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) Local Conference took place on March 18, 2025, at the ITS Conference Room in the Weija Gbawe Municipal Assembly Compound.
This event brought together educators, dignitaries, and advocates to discuss critical issues in the education sector, culminating in the election of a new leadership team.
Mr. Edward Nimako, the outgoing chairman, opened the conference with a warm welcome, expressing gratitude for the dedication of all attendees and fostering a collaborative atmosphere for the day’s discussions.
The keynote address was delivered by Hon. Jerry Ahmed Shaib, Member of Parliament for Weija-Gbawe and Second Deputy Minority Whip.
His speech, centered around the theme “Learning for Sustainable Futures: Attracting and Retaining Teachers for Quality Education and Union Participation,” emphasized the urgent need to enhance the appeal of the teaching profession by improving working conditions and fostering supportive environments for educators.
He called for collective efforts from the government, teacher unions, and communities to ensure that teachers feel valued and motivated in their roles.
Mr. Charles Odoom, the Municipal Director of Education, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to elevate educational standards.
He stressed that it is only through unity and shared vision that we can tackle the challenges facing our schools.
Odoom encouraged teachers to actively engage in professional development and take ownership of their roles in shaping the future of education.
He urged the community to recognize the invaluable contributions of teachers and support their efforts to create a nurturing learning environment.
Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor, Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), also addressed the audience, focusing on the harmful impacts of corporal punishment in schools.
He advocated for the abolition of this practice, urging educators to adopt non-violent discipline methods that create safe and respectful learning environments.
His message resonated with attendees, underscoring the necessity for systemic changes that support both teachers and students.
The proceedings then shifted to the election of new officers, led by Madam Emma Asante, Chairperson of the GNAT Election Committee.
After officially dissolving the outgoing leadership, the committee introduced candidates who presented their visions for the future of GNAT.
The elections proceeded without incident, resulting in the following newly elected officers: Edward Nimako as Chairman, Felix Dzanku as Secretary, Esther as Vice Chairperson, Josephine Adama Hammond as Vice Secretary, Cynthia Eddie Chapman as Treasurer, Joseph Odotei Odoi as Youth Coordinator, Faiza as GNATLAS Coordinator, Madam Anita Gyefour as Education Office Representative, and Emmanuel Kwaku Boateng as Basic School Coordinator.
In his acceptance speech, newly elected Chairman Edward Nimako expressed his deep gratitude for the trust placed in him and his team.
He reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for the welfare of all GNAT members and improving educational outcomes across the region.
The conference concluded with a motion from the Chairman, highlighting the collective responsibility of all stakeholders to ensure a brighter future for Ghana’s educational system.
