Professional development is an integral aspect of any career, and the teaching profession is no exception. On Wednesday, July 26, 2023, a crucial CPD (Continuous Professional Development) meeting took place, involving prominent stakeholders in the education sector.
Union leaders of GNAT, NAGRAT, and CCT GH, alongside representatives from the NTC (National Teaching Council) and GES (Ghana Education Service), convened to discuss and shape the future of CPD for educators.
The Attendees
The CPD meeting saw the participation of key figures from various educational bodies, demonstrating a collaborative effort to enhance professional development opportunities for teachers:
- Union leaders of GNAT, NAGRAT, and CCT GH, accompanied by some of their officers.
- Registrar of NTC and his lieutenants.
- DDG MS (Deputy Director-General for Management Services) of GES.
The Agreements
The meeting resulted in several critical agreements that will shape the CPD landscape for educators in Ghana. These agreements are aimed at providing more accessible and impactful professional development opportunities for teachers to enhance their skills and stay abreast of the latest advancements in education.
Reduction in CPD Points Required
To alleviate some burden on teachers while still ensuring their growth, the CPD points required for all ranks have been reduced. Previously set at 85 or more, the new requirement stands at 60 CPD points for a period of three years.
Annual CPD Point Accumulation
Under the new agreements, teachers will be expected to accumulate 20 CPD points each year. This move encourages continuous learning and growth throughout their careers.
Employer’s Contribution to CPD Points
Recognizing the significance of CPD, the employer (presumably the government or educational institutions) will contribute to teachers’ professional development by covering 60% (12 points per year) of the total 20 points to be accumulated annually.
Online CPD Workshops Initiative
To promote flexibility and self-initiated learning, the NTC will establish an online portal. Through this platform, teachers can access online CPD workshops and earn 20% (4 points) of their required CPD points for free each year.
External CPD Workshops Attendance
In addition to the online workshops, teachers will be encouraged to attend two external CPD workshops, earning 4 points (equivalent to 20% of the annual requirement). However, participation in these workshops will require a payment of GHS 150.
Employer-Organized CPD Days
To ensure the fulfillment of the employer’s contribution, CPD days will be organized by the employer. A GHS 150 charge will be deducted from the CPDA (CPD Allowance) at the source to cover these CPD days, enabling teachers to attain the remaining 60% of their CPD points from the employer.
CPDA Allocation Breakdown
The revised CPDA allocation structure will require teachers to contribute GHS 300 annually from their GHS 1,200 CPDA.
- GHS 150 will go to service providers for attending four (target CPD) points in a year.
- GHS 150 will be paid to the employer, covering 60% of the total CPD points per year, including 30% PLC (Professional Learning Communities) at no cost and 30% CPD days at GHS 150 per year.
This positive step forward promises a brighter future for both teachers and their students, as the pursuit of knowledge and growth becomes more streamlined and rewarding.
Source: GESHub.org
