The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) is advocating for a robust legal framework to solidify the recent reinstatement of Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) in pre-tertiary institutions. GNAT President, Rev. Isaac Owusu, emphasized the need for legislative backing to ensure the sustainability of PTAs, which were revived by the Ghana Education Service (GES) on July 17, 2025, following a directive by President John Dramani Mahama.
The reinstatement reverses a 2019 policy that suspended PTAs and replaced them with weaker Parent Associations (PAs) as part of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program. Rev. Owusu stressed that GNAT has long championed the revitalization of PTAs, recognizing their critical role in fostering collaboration between parents and teachers to enhance school management and learning outcomes.
According to Rev. Owusu, the restoration of PTAs returns school management to the community, and any future reversal would undermine inclusive governance in education. He urged Parliament to enact legislation that provides legal protection to PTAs, preventing arbitrary dismantling or sidelining by future governments. This legislative measure would provide stability and long-term assurance for PTAs to contribute meaningfully to school development.
President Mahama had previously criticised the suspension of PTAs as “unacceptable” and pledged their full restoration as part of his broader education reforms. With the reinstatement now in effect, GNAT is pushing for legislative safeguards to ensure the long-term viability of PTAs.
