–𝘚𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘺𝘪𝘯 𝘈𝘥𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘎𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘢’𝘴 𝘈𝘯𝘯𝘶𝘢𝘭 𝘖𝘶𝘵𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘚𝘶𝘮𝘮𝘪𝘵
Former Deputy Foreign Minister, B. Elias Shoniyin, has expressed profound gratitude to Ghanaian teachers for their dedication, passion and unwavering commitment to their students, which he said has made a profound impact on the future of Ghana. “You are the torchbearers of knowledge, shaping the minds of our youth and nurturing the leaders and innovators of tomorrow. Your resilience and adaptability in the face of the challenges brought about by the digital age are truly remarkable,” Shoniyin observed.
Addressing Ghana’s Annual Outstanding Teachers Summit on Thursday, September 20, 2023 in Accra, Ghana, on the theme, “Nurturing Outstanding Teachers in the Digital Age”, Shoniyin said, “As a teacher myself, let me take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate the teachers in this room and across Ghana.
“Before I delve into the heart of this theme, let me begin by commending the people of Ghana for your commitment to celebrating and recognizing outstanding teachers. Teaching is a noble profession, and the impact of dedicated educators is immeasurable. By honoring exceptional teachers, you not only uplift their spirits but also inspire the entire teaching community to strive for excellence.”
In his keynote address, Shoniyin said, “In the landscape of education, we find ourselves at a crossroads. The digital age has ushered in a wave of technological advancements that have reshaped the way we live, work, and learn. The role of educators has become even more critical as we navigate this ever-evolving educational terrain. We find ourselves not only teaching our students but also preparing them for a world that is interconnected, technologically driven, and constantly changing.
“We find ourselves in an era of unparalleled transformation–the Digital Age. The impact of technology on our lives is undeniable, and it has revolutionized the way we teach. The advent of the digital age has ushered in opportunities and challenges that require us to adapt and evolve continuously. Today, we stand at the crossroads of traditional pedagogy and innovative practices, and the role of the outstanding teacher has never been more critical.
“In the heart of this technological revolution, Africa, and more specifically, Ghana, has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability. Our continent, rich in cultural diversity and steeped in history, is now embracing the digital age to bridge educational disparities, promote inclusivity, and empower the next generation. As educators, we bear the responsibility of ensuring that this transition is smooth and that no child is left behind.
“Let us acknowledge the pivotal role that outstanding teachers play in shaping the future of our nations. An outstanding teacher is not merely a dispenser of knowledge; they are sculptors of young minds, catalysts for change, and beacons of inspiration. In this digital age, where information is abundant and easily accessible, teachers are no longer just conveyors of facts. They are guides, mentors and facilitators of critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.”
Shoniyin said, “In addition to individual growth and collaboration, we must advocate for supportive policies and investments in education. Governments, stakeholders, and communities must recognize the pivotal role of teachers in building a prosperous and equitable society. Adequate resources, fair compensation, and conducive working conditions are not just benefits for teachers; they are essential elements for nurturing outstanding educators.
“Furthermore, we must harness the power of technology to enhance the learning experience. Digital tools can personalize education, making it more engaging and effective. They can help teachers differentiate instruction and provide individualized support to students. However, we must also be mindful of the digital divide and work tirelessly to bridge it, ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has access to quality education.”
However, Shoniyin pointed out, “Despite the availability of these innovative digital tools, let us not forget that technology alone cannot replace the profound impact of a dedicated and caring teacher. While digital tools can enhance education, it is the human touch, the mentorship, and the personal connections forged between teachers and students that truly make a difference. Outstanding teachers excel not only in utilizing technology but also in fostering relationships and nurturing the social and emotional well-being of their students.”
The former Deputy Foreign Minister noted that the 2023 Outstanding Teachers Summit is a shining example of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the tireless efforts of educators. “As we navigate the digital age, let us remember that outstanding teaching is not just about technology; it’s about inspiring and empowering our students to become critical thinkers, problem solvers, and responsible citizens,” he added.
In closing, Shoniyin challenged the teachers to embrace the opportunities of the digital age while staying grounded in the timeless principles of teaching. “Let us continue to nurture outstanding teachers who are not just skilled in technology but are also passionate advocates for the transformative power of education. Together, we can shape a future where education continues to be a beacon of hope and empowerment for all,” he continued.