GNAT urges GES to prioritise transfers for female teachers in rural areas

Sarah Oye Owiredu is the Greater Accra Regional Chair of GNAT. She has urged the Ghana Education Service (GES) to help female teachers. These teachers face challenges when seeking transfers from rural areas.

Many female educators want to reunite with their families. Some endure long daily commutes, which affect their work and well-being. At the Accra Metro West GNATLAS Roundabout Conference on May 14, she expressed these concerns.

Madam Owiredu noted that district officials often hesitate to grant transfers. She mentioned a three-year mandatory service requirement as a major obstacle. “Some have served two years but need transfers due to marriage,” she said.

She added that some teachers are pursuing higher education. Commuting from rural areas to urban centers can be difficult for them. “We plead with directors to help ladies with these issues get transfers,” she stated.

Owiredu also praised the government's initiative for rural teacher allowances. She called for quick implementation of this process. “Teachers refuse to go to rural areas because of the circumstances there,” she explained.

The government should motivate teachers so they can stay in rural areas. This will help them become role models for young girls in those communities.