The National Teaching Council (NTC) has reported that over 42,000 teachers in basic and senior high schools across Ghana lack professional teaching qualifications.

A nationwide survey conducted by the Council identified 12,279 unqualified teachers at the senior high school level and more than 30,000 in basic schools.

Francis Addai, the NTC Director in charge of Licensing and Registration, confirmed these figures during an interview with JoyNews, characterizing the situation as a significant challenge for the education sector.

To address this issue and ensure teachers meet legal certification requirements, the NTC has partnered with five universities — the University of Cape Coast (UCC), University of Education, Winneba (UEW), Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (AAMUSTED), Valley View University, and University for Development Studies (UDS).

These institutions will offer a fast-track Postgraduate Diploma in Education specifically designed for graduate teachers who are not yet professionally certified.

The 18-week program spans two semesters and is offered at a subsidized fee of GH¢5,000. Mr. Addai urged non-professional teachers in both public and private schools to utilise this initiative to regularize their status.

Currently, the first cohort of 1,400 students has matriculated at the University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development and is scheduled to complete the program by August 2026.