In a recent meeting with Principals of Colleges of Education, the Minister of Education, Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, announced that the government will maintain the teacher trainee allowance for the time being. This decision aims to support the well-being and future prospects of students, as the allowance directly impacts their lives.¹

However, the government plans to transition students at colleges of education onto an enhanced student loan scheme in the future. This move aims to promote autonomy and self-sufficiency among students, ensuring they can take care of themselves without relying solely on allowances. The transition will be implemented based on recommendations from the upcoming education dialogue proposed by President John Dramani Mahama.

The education conference, scheduled for February 17-20, will address the challenges facing Ghana's education sector. The Minister acknowledged the difficulties colleges of education face, including infrastructure deficits and lack of academic facilities. He assured that the government will allocate sufficient funds to address these issues, although he noted that competing demands from various educational levels might affect the allocations.



Professor Samuel Awinkene Atintono, President of the Principals of Colleges of Education (PRINCOF), highlighted the need for urgent attention to the challenges facing the education sector. He expressed concern about delayed payment of allowances, which has caused hardship for teacher trainees, and appealed to the minister to intervene and ensure prompt payment.

The government's commitment to maintaining the teacher trainee allowance is a welcome move, as it will provide financial support to students during their training. However, the planned transition to an enhanced student loan scheme aims to promote independence and self-reliance among students, which is essential for their future success.

Key Takeaways:

  • Teacher Trainee Allowance: The government will maintain the allowance for the time being.
  • Enhanced Student Loan Scheme: The government plans to transition students to an enhanced student loan scheme to promote autonomy and self-sufficiency.
  • Education Conference: The upcoming conference will address challenges facing Ghana's education sector, including infrastructure deficits and lack of academic facilities.
  • PRINCOF's Concerns: The Principals of Colleges of Education (PRINCOF) expressed concerns about delayed payment of allowances and infrastructure deficits.