Excerpt
The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) is a prominent professional organization representing educators across Ghana’s pre-tertiary institutions. Established on July 14, 1962, GNAT has been instrumental in advocating for teachers’ rights, enhancing educational standards, and contributing to national development.
Historical Background
GNAT was inaugurated in 1962, following teachers’ dissatisfaction with their affiliation to the Trades Union Congress (TUC). The primary concerns were that not all teachers could join the TUC due to salary thresholds, and many viewed teaching as a profession distinct from other trades. Consequently, the government permitted teachers to form an independent association, leading to GNAT’s establishment. Initially, GNAT comprised various constituent bodies, including the Elementary School Teachers Association and the Association of Secondary School Teachers. In 1975, these bodies unified under GNAT, creating a cohesive organization representing all pre-tertiary educators in Ghana.
Constitutional Role and Mandate
GNAT operates as a non-partisan, non-sectarian, and equal-opportunity professional association. Its primary aims include:
- Uniting all teachers in pre-tertiary educational institutions.
- Promoting the rights and interests of children.
- Advising the government on educational policy formulation and implementation.
- Advocating for better conditions of service for teachers.
The association is recognized under the Ghana Education Service Act, 1995 (Act 506), as the sole body representing teachers in Ghana.
Organizational Structure
GNAT’s structure is hierarchical, ensuring representation from the grassroots to the national level:
Basic Unit:
- The foundational level, typically an educational institution or office where teachers are registered with GNAT. Each unit elects a representative biennially.
Local Branch:
- Comprises all basic units within a local authority area. The Local Conference, held every two years, is the highest decision-making body at this level.
District Branch:
- Encompasses multiple local branches within a district. It operates through a District Conference, Council, and Executive.
Regional Branch:
- Consists of district branches within a region, managed by a Regional Council and Executive.
National Level:
- The apex body includes the National Delegates Conference, National Council, and National Executive, which oversee the association’s overall administration and policy direction.
Leadership and Ranks
GNAT’s leadership is democratically elected across its various levels:
Local Executive:
- Led by a Chairperson, Secretary, and other officers elected by local members.
District Executive:
- Comprises a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Secretary, and additional officers.
Regional Executive:
- Includes a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Secretary, and other elected officials.
National Executive:
- The highest leadership body, featuring the National President, Vice-President, General Secretary, and other key officers.
These leaders are responsible for implementing GNAT’s policies, representing members’ interests, and ensuring effective communication within the association.
Mode of Appointment or Recruitment
GNAT employs both elected and appointed personnel:
Elected Positions:
- Leadership roles at various levels are filled through democratic elections during conferences or meetings.
Appointed Positions:
- Professional roles, such as Assistant Secretaries (District Secretaries), are filled through formal recruitment processes. For instance, candidates for the Assistant Secretary position are required to recruit and mobilize members, manage district secretariats, facilitate professional development, and liaise with governmental and non-governmental institutions.
Affiliated Offices and Units
GNAT collaborates with various bodies to fulfill its mandate:
Ghana Education Service (GES):
- Works closely with GES to influence educational policies and advocate for teachers’ welfare.
International Affiliations:
- As a member of global teacher organizations, GNAT engages in international discourse on education and teacher welfare.
GNAT District and Regional Offices:
- These units implement policies and programs at the grassroots level, ensuring members receive support and services tailored to their local contexts.
Constitutional Reforms
Over the years, GNAT has undertaken constitutional reforms to adapt to changing educational landscapes and member needs. These reforms aim to enhance governance, improve service delivery, and ensure the association remains responsive to its members. Significant amendments have focused on streamlining organizational structures, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and promoting greater member participation in decision-making processes.
Achievements
Throughout its history, GNAT has accomplished numerous milestones:
- Advocacy for Improved Conditions: Successfully negotiated better salaries, benefits, and working conditions for teachers.
- Professional Development: Organized workshops, seminars, and training programs to enhance teachers’ skills and competencies.
- Educational Policy Influence: Played a pivotal role in shaping national educational policies, ensuring they align with teachers’ interests and promote quality education.
- Welfare Initiatives: Established welfare schemes, including housing projects and health programs, to support members’ well-being.
Reference
- https://www.ghanateachers.com/about-us/history-of-gnat
- https://www.ghanateachers.com/news-media/downloads/category/4-general-files
- https://avenuegh.com/gnat-recruitment/
- https://openlibrary.org/books/OL1040564M/Constitution_and_rules_of_the_Ghana_National_Association_of_Teachers_%28GNAT%29.
- https://www.ghanayello.com/company/29808/Ghana_National_Association_of_Teachers
- https://www.ghanateachers.com/news-media/downloads/category/4-general-files?download=9%3Aconstitution
- https://www.ghanateachers.com/about-us/history-of-gnat
- https://www.ghanateachers.com/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghana_National_Association_of_Teachers
- https://ir.knust.edu.gh/handle/123456789/2294
- https://download.ei-ie.org/Docs/WebDepot/GNAT_2010_TEACHER_ATTRITION__REPORT.pdf
- https://wiredspace.wits.ac.za/items/4754590a-3652-4ca0-bd7b-5cb93b2a6e40