The National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) has called on President John Mahama to immediately remove the Deputy Director General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), Professor Smile Gavua Dzisi, from her post.
According to NAGRAT, there are more qualified individuals within the public and civil service capable of assuming the role. The Association expressed concerns about the trend of appointing political figures who lack experience within the service, emphasizing the need for competent leaders who have risen through the ranks.
Background on Prof. Smile Dzisi
Prof. Dzisi has an impressive academic and professional record. She previously served as the Vice-Chancellor and Rector of Koforidua Technical University, where she made history as the first female Rector of a Polytechnic in Ghana. Her tenure saw the institution’s successful transition from a polytechnic to a technical university. Additionally, she has served as president of the Data Link Institute of Business and Technology in Tema.
Her career began as a teacher at St. Roses Senior High School in Akwatia, Eastern Region, before climbing the academic ladder. Despite her accomplishments, NAGRAT insists on her appointment as Deputy Director General of GES is politically motivated and undermines the integrity of the service.
NAGRAT’s Stance
At a press conference in Accra, NAGRAT President Angel Carbonu stated that the association is prepared to engage with President Mahama to discuss appointments within the GES.
“We call on the government to prioritize appointing professionals who have dedicated their careers to the Public Service. The appointment of individuals who have not risen through the ranks threatens the stability and morale within our education system,” Mr. Carbonu said.
He further warned that failure to address their concerns could lead to industrial unrest, saying, “We want to meet with the President to prevent any upheaval in the labour space.”
Call for Systemic Reforms
NAGRAT’s demands extend beyond Prof. Dzisi’s removal. The Association urged the government to review the broader appointment processes across the GES and public service.
“We demand the replacement of political appointees with individuals who have earned their positions through hard work, sacrifice, and a demonstrated understanding of the system. This is crucial for maintaining the professionalism and efficiency of the service,” Mr. Carbonu added.
Support from CLOGSAG
The Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG) has thrown its weight behind NAGRAT. Speaking at the same event, CLOGSAG Executive Secretary Isaac Bampoe echoed the concerns, warning that current appointment practices threaten Ghana’s development.
“We support NAGRAT’s demands and will stand in solidarity if a strike is declared. This issue must be resolved to safeguard the future of Ghana’s education and governance,” Mr. Bampoe said.
CLOGSAG has also called for an audience with the president, urging him to listen to the grievances of stakeholders and ensure that public institutions are led by qualified and experienced professionals.
Way Forward
The call by NAGRAT and CLOGSAG signals growing dissatisfaction among key stakeholders within Ghana’s education and public service sectors. Whether the government heeds their warnings or faces industrial action remains to be seen, but the debate underscores the need for transparency and meritocracy in public appointments.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
