Education Minister has mounted strong defence over his comments that have been misconstrued to suggest diploma holders attended colleges of education with bad results.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh says not only were his comments taken out of context but also twisted to favour the whims and caprices of his detractors.
A video, cut-out but edited of an interview he granted to Kumasi-based Kessben TV Tuesday has been circulating on some social media platforms.
Responding to claims of people he described as ‘detractors’ on Nhyira FM Wednesday, he explained the comments which were doctored were taken out of context.
Whilst quoting an Akan proverb, to suggest some persons are on a mission to discredit him.
“If somebody who does not like you want to mimic your dancing style, he twists the waist in an awkward position to discredit your dancing moves,” he quoted.
“As Education Minister, how would I insult teachers?
“NPP is the only government that has shown commitment to the plight of teachers through the payment of huge arrears owed them between 2013 and 2016.”
He wondered how he will turn around to despise teachers he has been fronting for since he assumed office.
He told host, Kofi Asante, he personally led reforms to boost the self esteem of teacher trainees by first pegging entry requirements of Colleges of Education from four to six passes to correct long-held negative impression that the colleges were meant for those with lower grades.
According to him, the award of degree at Colleges of Education is not only an upgrade of existing diploma certificates but an indication of the government’s resolve to support teacher trainees.
“Entrance requirements for the college of education was the lowest. There was this feeling that Colleges of Education were meant for only those with weak grades. It used to be four passes instead of six for the universities. To stop that thought and ill-feeling, entry requirements at the College of Education and University are the same,” he explained.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh said teachers who until now hold Diploma certificates will no longer struggle to do top-up courses after completion of training but would rather be awarded a degree with the introduction of four-year degree courses at College of Education.
The Member of Parliament for Manhyia South who is seeking re-election revealed, he has good working and personal relationships with all teacher unions in the country.
According to him, he has accorded all unions with the utmost respect, a development he says has prevented several industrial actions from the latter.
He assured teachers of the government’s commitment to improving living conditions through better remuneration and good working conditions and other incentives such as awards and scholarships.
