Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has sharply criticised the President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Rev. Isaac Owusu, for advising male teachers to pursue relationships with single female colleagues instead of female students.
Rev. Owusu’s statement, which has triggered widespread public backlash, came in response to recent reports of sexual misconduct involving teachers and students that led to the interdiction of several head teachers nationwide. Addressing a gathering of educators, he reportedly said:
“We are pleading with our male teachers — if you have that desire, we have beautiful women and single ladies among our staff and in our communities.”
Mr. Iddrisu described the remark as “unethical and unprofessional,” arguing that it contradicts the Ministry’s commitment to discipline, professionalism, and the protection of students in schools.
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“The GNAT President may have intended to discourage inappropriate teacher-student relationships, but his delivery was misguided. Any teacher who exploits a student will face sanctions. We are resolute in keeping our schools safe and secure for all learners,” the Minister stated.
He further cautioned that romantic pursuits within the workplace could amount to sexual harassment and would also attract disciplinary consequences.
“In his own words, Rev. Isaac Owusu said, ‘if you want to do the thing, do it with female teachers.’ I must remind him that such behaviour, even among colleagues, can constitute sexual harassment and is equally unacceptable. Personal relationships must remain outside the school environment and strictly between consenting adults,” Mr. Iddrisu stressed.
Reaffirming the government’s zero tolerance for misconduct, the Minister warned that any educator found guilty of sexual impropriety—whether involving students or colleagues—would face severe punishment.
“There are married teachers in the school system, and such conduct is unethical, unprofessional, and unbecoming of the teaching profession. It erodes public trust and undermines the delivery of quality education,” he added.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem