In a bid to address the staffing challenges faced by rural schools, presidential candidate for the opposition National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama has unveiled a new incentive plan aimed at encouraging teachers to serve in these underserved areas.
As part of his educational reform strategy, Mahama announced that teachers who agree to work in rural schools will receive a 20% salary increase.
“Teachers who agree to serve in a rural school will be paid 20% of their salary as an incentive. This will encourage teachers to accept to serve in rural schools,” the former president said.
This initiative is designed to make rural teaching positions more attractive, thereby ensuring that students in remote areas have access to quality education.
By offering financial incentives, Mahama aims to reduce the reluctance among educators to work in rural settings, where living and working conditions are often more challenging.
Also recognizing the significant hardships linked to accommodation, Mahama announced a strategic plan to incorporate housing into the design of new schools at both basic and secondary levels.
“One of the difficulties rural teachers are confronted with is accommodation,” Mahama stated.
“So I have decided that in designing new schools for the basic and secondary levels, accommodation will be incorporated so that when teachers are posted to a school, they don’t have to live in an adjoining town and struggle with transportation.”
Mahama’s proposal aims to enhance the living conditions of teachers, making it easier for them to focus on their educational responsibilities without the added burden of commuting long distances.
By integrating housing facilities within school premises, this initiative seeks to attract and retain qualified teachers in rural areas, ultimately improving the quality of education for students in these communities.
These plans highlight Mahama’s commitment to addressing educational challenges and supporting teachers, acknowledging their vital role in shaping the future of the nation if elected as president in the upcoming December 7 general elections
