Members of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) have made a formal appeal to the government to review the current maternity leave policy for female teachers, proposing an extension from the standard three months to four months.

This resolution was among the key welfare demands presented by the GNAT President, Prosper Tachie (Esq), during a media briefing in Kumasi. According to him, the proposal forms part of a broader communique aimed at improving the working conditions and the general well-being of teachers across the country.

Giving a detailed explanation of their current call, the President said the transition for nursing mothers back into the classroom is usually accompanied by physical and emotional challenges that a three-month period does not adequately address.

“Conference calls on the government to extend maternity leave from three months to four months. We know the challenges confronting our teachers who become nursing mothers, and we believe this extension is necessary for their health and the proper care of their children.”

The association argues that providing an extra month of leave would result in a more motivated and physically prepared workforce, ultimately benefiting the quality of education delivered in schools.

The GNAT President urged the Ministry of Education and relevant government agencies to take the proposal seriously, noting that the well-being of the teacher is a fundamental pillar of a successful education system.

“The association intends to continue its advocacy on this matter until the policy is streamlined to meet the modern needs of the Ghanaian teacher,” he concluded.