The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has reiterated government’s firm stance on upholding professionalism and discipline within Ghana’s education sector, stressing that misconduct of any form will not be tolerated among teachers.
Speaking at the commissioning of the Dr. Leonard Kaledzi Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence Education at Anloga, Mr. Iddrisu emphasized that teachers must maintain the highest ethical standards in their interactions with students and colleagues.
His comments follow recent controversy surrounding remarks by the President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Reverend Isaac Owusu, who reportedly advised male teachers to avoid relationships with students and instead pursue female colleagues.
While acknowledging the intention to discourage teacher-student misconduct, Mr. Iddrisu said the language used was inappropriate and failed to reflect the ethical responsibilities of educators.
“We will punish any teacher found in any compromising act with a student because such conduct threatens the safety and learning environment,” the Minister warned.
“Even relationships among colleagues, if pursued in a way that violates the teaching code of conduct, may amount to sexual harassment.”
He noted that the Ministry of Education is committed to strengthening mechanisms for accountability, training, and ethics within schools to ensure that learners are protected from abuse and exploitation.
Mr. Iddrisu further urged teacher unions, school authorities, and regulatory bodies to work together to reinforce integrity, respect, and professionalism within the teaching profession.
“Our teachers are role models, and the trust placed in them must never be compromised,” he said.
