By Mildred Siabi-Mensah
Fijai (WR), July 25, -Mr. Matthew Adjardjah, former Head of Policy Development at the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), has urged national leadership to design policies grounded in research and tailored to the needs of the Ghanaian youth.
Speaking at the Seventh Quadrennial and 54th Regional Delegates Conference of GNAT’s Western Regional Branch in Fijai, Mr. Adjardjah criticised policymakers for often overlooking the youth—who form the critical mass of the population—and instead crafting policies centered around adult concerns.
“I hear too much blame being placed on young people. But policy must be based on verifiable, relevant data. Sentiments have no place in good policymaking,” he stressed.
He added that governance is the responsibility of adults, who must prioritize the interests of the youth to ensure sustainable national development.
The conference was held under the theme: “Educating an African Fit for the 21st Century: The Role of Policymakers and Unions in Ghana,” a theme aimed at highlighting the need for all stakeholders to play an active role in shaping the future of the Ghanaian child.
Mr. Adjardjah, also a former GNAT Development Planning Director, emphasized the importance of parenting, mentorship, and a conducive learning environment in preparing the youth for a promising future. He called for investment in infrastructure, guidance and counselling services, and modernized learning methods.
He further advocated for a continent-wide educational policy that addresses Africa-specific needs, especially in the sciences and emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence. According to him, African universities must be the hub for innovation in agriculture, technology, and socio-economic development.
Mr. Peter Obeng Nyamekye, Western Regional GNAT Chairman, outlined several accomplishments from the past four years, including:
Renovation of the regional GNAT hostel, Removal of a land-blocking rock (nicknamed “Mountain Afadjato”) behind the hostel, Construction of a 2-unit classroom block for Kwakubosea D/A Primary School, Construction/renovation of district offices in Juaboso, Bia, Mpohor Wassa East, Ahanta West, Sefwi Wiawso, and Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai and the Resolution of a long-standing land dispute in Bibiani
In terms of social impact, GNAT provided: Learning materials to Appiatse Primary School after the explosion incident, Support to 100 needy pupils in Wuwuso and Bosomdo University bursaries for 50 women under the GNAT/CTF Women in Education scheme, Over GHC 3.6 million in accident, disaster, and death benefits to more than 1,300 members and retirees
Membership in the Western Region rose from 19,399 in 2021 to 22,192 in 2024, attributed to aggressive recruitment in teacher training institutions. A major highlight was the creation of the new Wassa Amenfi East District.
Challenges faced included logistical difficulties across the vast region, delays in grant disbursements, and inherited debts, which Mr. Nyamekye noted had been cleared.
Looking ahead, GNAT plans to: Develop hostel lands commercially, establish a satellite office in Sefwi Wiawso, Complete remaining district offices, Advocate for a new district in Prestea-Huni Valley and Launch a “Welcome Fund” for newly trained teachers
Mr. Nyamekye expressed appreciation to GNAT Headquarters and partners and encouraged delegates to enjoy the hospitality and resources of the Western Region, affirming his belief that “the best comes from the West.”
GNA
Edited by Justina Paaga/Audrey Dekalu