THE EDUCATION WATCH
April 2026
Executive Director of Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch)
Kofi Asare, Executive Director of Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch), reported in January 2026 that approximately 30,000 classrooms in Ghana are operating without teachers due to a failure to recruit in 2025. He advocates for a needs-based teacher deployment policy to fill vacancies, particularly in rural, understaffed areas.
By Staff Writer
Ghana’s education system is facing a serious challenge as reports indicate that over 30,000 classrooms across the country do not have teachers, while the government plans to recruit only 7,000 teachers. This situation has raised concern among teachers, parents, and education experts.
Background of the Problem
Education experts say the shortage became worse because no teacher recruitment was done in 2025. As a result, many classrooms have been left without teachers, especially in rural areas.
Government’s Position
The Ministry of Education has explained that the recruitment of 7,000 teachers is based on financial clearance from the Ministry of Finance. This means the government currently does not have enough funds to employ more teachers. Officials also say the new teachers will be sent mainly to deprived communities, where the need is greatest.
Concerns from Stakeholders
Teacher unions and education groups have described the number as too small compared to the problem. They argue that:
1. Many trained teachers are still unemployed
2. The number cannot solve the nationwide shortage
3. Students’ learning is being affected
Impact on Students
The absence of teachers in classrooms is already causing serious problems:
1. Poor academic performance
2. Loss of interest in schooling
3. Increased dropout rates
Some pupils go to school every day but do not receive proper teaching.
Expert Suggestions
Education analysts recommend that the government should:
1. Recruit more teachers every year
2. Provide incentives for teachers in rural areas
3. Ensure fair distribution of teachers across the country
Conclusion
Although the recruitment of 7,000 teachers is a step forward, it is not enough to solve the problem of 30,000 classrooms without teachers.
There is a need for urgent action to ensure that every classroom in Ghana has a qualified teacher.