- Rev. Isaac Owusu attributes rising basic school exam failures to politicisation and delayed capitation grants
- Government alone cannot sustain basic education; parental support is essential
- Capitation grants of less than GH₵1,500 per term are insufficient for school operations
The President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Rev. Isaac Owusu, has blamed the rising rate of exam failures among basic school pupils on the excessive politicisation of education and persistent delays in the disbursement of the capitation grant.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Rev. Owusu emphasized that the government alone cannot effectively manage basic education without active parental involvement, noting that efforts to restrict Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) contributions have worsened conditions in schools.
He explained that the capitation grant is insufficient to cover operational costs, as it must cater to examinations, sports, meetings, minor repairs, and teaching materials. According to him, no basic school receives more than GH₵1,500 per term, making it challenging to deliver quality education without additional support.
Rev. Owusu warned that pupils are likely to struggle in WAEC examinations if necessary learning materials are not provided.
“We must stop the blame game and work together to fix the system. Government has its role, parents have their role. Excessive politicisation is hurting education,” he stressed.
He commended Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu for clearing all outstanding capitation arrears since assuming office and noted that the timely release of funds for the current term has provided some relief.
Rev. Owusu also called for the reactivation of PTAs, insisting that willing parents should be allowed to contribute to the development of their schools.
