Hon. Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, the Minister for Education and Member of Parliament for the Bosomtwe Constituency, has emphasized that Senior High School (SHS) graduates will soon be required to obtain a testimonial as part of the criteria for admission into tertiary institutions.
This announcement was made during his address at the Grand Durbar of the Ghana Teacher Prize 2024, held at the Great Hall of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
The introduction of this requirement stems from concerns raised by Rev. Isaac Owusu, the National President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT). During his speech at the Ghana Teacher Prize event, Rev. Owusu highlighted the growing issue of indiscipline among some SHS graduates. He noted instances where students deliberately vandalize school property and show disrespect toward teachers at the end of their three-year SHS education. This behavior has sparked concern among stakeholders in the education sector, prompting discussions about measures to address such misconduct.
In response, Dr. Adutwum stated that requiring testimonials from SHS graduates would serve as a deterrent to such behaviors and foster a culture of accountability and discipline. The testimonials will act as a reflection of a student’s conduct during their time in high school and will be crucial for gaining admission to tertiary institutions. This policy aims to promote positive behavior and responsibility among students, ensuring that their actions in school align with their future academic and professional aspirations.
The Education Minister stressed that his office would collaborate with all tertiary institutions across the country, including technical universities, colleges of education, nursing and midwifery institutions, and universities, to ensure the successful implementation of this policy.
Dr. Adutwum also took the opportunity to appeal to current SHS students to adopt good behavior and positive attitudes, reminding them that they are future leaders of the nation and continent. He urged them to be mindful of their actions and to demonstrate the qualities that will make them responsible citizens.
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