BY Grace Zigah
Teacher trainees across the country are expressing frustration and disappointment as the 2026 Ghana Teacher Licensure Examination (GTLE) approaches, despite former President John Mahama having pledged during his 2024 campaign to abolish the exam if elected.
The licensure exam, first introduced under the Akufo-Addo administration in 2018, requires newly trained teachers to pass a national test before they are licensed to teach in public schools.
The initiative was originally justified as a way to standardize teacher quality.
However, during the 2024 campaign, Mahama criticized the exam as “unnecessary” and a barrier to employment, promising to integrate licensing directly into final-year assessments at the Colleges of Education.
Campaign Promise vs. Reality
Mahama’s pledge to abolish the separate licensure exam was a key point in his manifesto, aimed at winning the support of teacher trainees.
According to the NDC’s National Communications Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, the policy was described as “obnoxious” and a needless hurdle for graduates who have already completed rigorous four-year teacher training programs, including practical internships and teaching assignments in schools.
Despite the promise, the NTC has confirmed that registration for the 2026 GTLE opened on February 16, 2026, with the exam scheduled for March 23–25, 2026.
Fresh candidates are required to pay GH₵450 for the three papers, while re-sitting candidates pay between GH₵150 and GH₵385, depending on the number of papers.
Payment can be made via Prudential Bank or mobile money using the NTC short code 77251#.
The mandatory exam requires teachers to complete indexing and registration formalities, adding both administrative and financial burdens for trainees who were expecting automatic licensing after graduation.
Teachers’ Reaction
Many teacher trainees are now accusing the government of deception.
“During the campaign, Mahama said the exam was useless and would be canceled. Now we are being taxed and forced to write it,” said one trainee who requested anonymity.
Education stakeholders note that the 4-year Bachelor of Education and Postgraduate Diploma programs already include extensive academic assessment, field teaching practicums, and mandatory internships, all designed to ensure professional competence.
Despite this, the exam continues to act as a gatekeeper, limiting employment opportunities for qualified teachers.
Political Fallout
Analysts say the failure to follow through on campaign promises could erode trust between the new administration and the teaching
community.
