The Upper East Regional Chapter of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has launched its Youth Day Celebration, themed “Nurturing Tomorrow’s Educators: Balancing Professional Growth, Social Responsibility, and Well-being in a Changing World”, in commemoration of this year’s International Youth Day.
Building on the success of the National Youth Day launch in the Eastern Region in 2023, this event aimed to address pressing concerns affecting teachers’ personal and professional lives.
Regional Executives, Youth Coordinators, and professionals gathered to deliberate on critical issues, including mental health awareness and technological integration.
The Regional Chairperson of the association Ivy Naaso emphasized the urgent need for mental health support, citing academic pressures and social media influences.
“Our youthful members face immense pressures, from academic expectations to social media influences. As a union, prioritizing their mental well-being is crucial. We must create a safe environment where they can express emotions and seek help when needed,” she stated.
She emphasized that, GNAT is working towards establishing a guidance and counseling unit to promote mental health awareness and provide support.
Mrs. Naaso urged teachers to reaffirm their commitment to the profession, addressing social challenges, supporting diverse family structures, and championing mental health awareness.
“By doing so, we can shape a generation of young people who are not only knowledgeable and skilled but also compassionate, resilient, and ready to lead the world towards a brighter future,” Mrs Naaso emphasized.
Participants received training on modern teaching approaches, leveraging simple and affordable ICT tools to enhance teaching and learning.
The event demonstrated GNAT’s dedication to empowering teachers and shaping the future of education.
As Ghanaians joined the global celebration, the Upper East Chapter of GNAT set a precedent for prioritizing teachers’ well-being and professional growth, ensuring a positive impact on educators and learners alike.
