Deputy Education Minister Gifty Twum-Ampofo has issued an apology to teachers after receiving criticism for her recent comment suggesting that teachers should be held responsible for the country's economic challenges instead of Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
The apology comes after Hon. Twum-Ampofo spoke at the 175th anniversary of the Presbyterian College of Education in Akropong.
During her speech, Hon. Twum-Ampofo emphasized the crucial role of education in a country's success, stating, “For any country to perform wonderfully well, there is a lot we all need to do in the area of education.”
She also highlighted the correlation between a country's gross tertiary enrollment ratio and its GDP, stating that increased enrollment leads to higher economic growth.
In her remarks, Twum-Ampofo stated, “If the economy is not doing well, it is not the finance minister, it is not the economy but it is the teacher because the performance of the economy depends on the country's gross tertiary enrollment ratio.”
Following her comments, the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) released a statement condemning Twum-Ampofo's statement, describing it as “vicious” and “irresponsible.”
In response to the backlash, Hon. Twum-Ampofo offered a clarification during an interview with Accra-based TV3.
Expressing remorse, Twum-Ampofo said, “If for that one phrase, GNAT has got so peeved,” and as a Christian who had no intention of causing harm, she apologized for her comment. She further stated, “If people are hurt, I'm sorry.”
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