The Conference of Principals of Colleges of Education (PRINCOF) has issued a strong call to government and education sector stakeholders to urgently address escalating challenges confronting Colleges of Education across the country.
The concerns were outlined in a communiqué released at the end of its 2025 Annual Conference, held at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho from November 24–28.
The conference, held on the theme “Leveraging AI Technology in Colleges of Education in Ghana for Improved Teacher Education,” also marked the launch of the National NextGen Teachers’ Challenge under the Centre for National Distance Learning and Open Schooling (CENDLOS).
CETAG Strike Threatens Academic Calendar
A major concern highlighted by PRINCOF is the ongoing nationwide strike by the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG), which has halted teaching, assessment and supervision in all Colleges.
PRINCOF warned that a prolonged strike threatens national education timelines, including teacher deployment and basic school staffing.
It urged government to expedite negotiations with CETAG and demonstrate “good faith and urgency” in resolving the impasse. The Principals also appealed to CETAG to return to the negotiation table in the interest of students and the country, while calling on the National Labour Commission, GTEC, the Ministry of Education and civil society to support mediation efforts.
Digitalisation, AI and Research Support Needed
Recognising the growing importance of technology in teacher training, PRINCOF recommended the establishment of a National Digital Resources Fund to boost digitalisation and sustain PRINCOF’s e-teaching and learning platform.
The group also called for support to develop research clusters focusing on artificial intelligence in teaching and learning.
Colleges Strained by Delayed Feeding Grants
PRINCOF expressed concern about persistent delays in feeding grants and statutory funds, stating that the current daily feeding allocation of GHS 6.50 per student is inadequate and is plunging Colleges deeper into debt.
It urged government to adopt a predictable monthly release schedule, increase the feeding grant to match inflation, and pay outstanding arrears, including a GHS 1.50 top-up per student for the 2024/2025 academic year and two months of accumulated arrears caused by the 2024 sector strike.
Infrastructure Challenges Intensify
Lecture halls, laboratories, libraries, hostels, ICT centres and staff accommodation remain overstretched across Colleges of Education.
PRINCOF acknowledged ongoing government efforts but urged GETFund to fast-track stalled projects and for government to expand digital infrastructure and establish a National College Infrastructure Modernisation Initiative.
Colleges, it said, should be allocated seed money for infrastructure development, similar to other tertiary institutions.
Staff Shortages, STS Constraints and B.Ed Accreditation
The communiqué noted ongoing staff shortages due to delayed recruitment clearances and ageing faculty. PRINCOF appealed to the Ministry of Finance to expedite recruitment authorisations and introduce special dispensation for Colleges of Education.
On Supported Teaching in Schools (STS), PRINCOF called for buses to support student-teacher practicum activities and urged GTEC to grant accreditation for Colleges to run the B.Ed Senior High School curriculum.
Other Key Concerns Raised
Operational Vehicles: PRINCOF thanked government for assurances to supply vehicles for some principals but requested provision for all remaining Colleges.
Environmental Threats: Illegal mining (galamsey) continues to threaten campus environments. PRINCOF called for intensified national action to curb environmental degradation.
High Utility Costs: Increasing electricity and water tariffs are hindering academic work. PRINCOF proposed the creation of an education sector utility fund and investment in green energy solutions.
Graduate Unemployment: With unemployment among trained teachers rising, PRINCOF urged government to prioritise teacher postings to deprived areas and expand entrepreneurship and TVET components in Colleges.
Strengthening Partnerships: The group encouraged government to facilitate international partnerships in AI, STEM, Early Childhood Education and climate education, as well as support for research exchanges and global competitiveness.
Communal Conflicts: PRINCOF expressed concern over recurring ethnic and communal conflicts affecting Colleges and surrounding school communities, calling for coordinated efforts by government, peace councils and traditional leaders to protect schooling and communities.
Commitment to Teacher Training
PRINCOF concluded by reaffirming its commitment to producing competent and globally competitive teachers, and urged government and stakeholders to act swiftly on the issues raised to safeguard Ghana’s teacher education system.
The communiqué was signed by Dr. Samuel Addae-Boateng, General Secretary of PRINCOF and Principal of Atebubu College of Education.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
