New teachers’ association GATE launches in Accra with call for values-driven, transformational education

The Global Association of Transformational Educators (GATE) was officially launched in Accra on Saturday, August 16, with a call for education to move beyond mere academic instruction and embrace values, innovation, and nation-building.

The launch brought together educators, policy advocates, and development leaders, all united by a vision to restore dignity to the teaching profession and to empower teachers as catalysts of transformation in society.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr Abu Bako, President of the Logos-Rhema Foundation of Leadership and Resource Development, emphasised that education without values risks producing individuals who misuse knowledge. “Without values, you are only training very clever thieves armed with pens and tongues,” he cautioned.

Dr Bako argued that education must begin with the personal transformation of educators themselves before spreading to families, governments, industries, and economies. He challenged teachers to think beyond salaries and to see themselves as builders of nations.

“Teachers should not only think of salary issues but also of building those who are good at money,” he said, adding that sustainable funding models could ensure teachers’ welfare while strengthening national development.

He also stressed the need to adopt 21st-century approaches that harness technology and artificial intelligence to reach every child. “It is not just about building more schools. In the 21st century, with technology, we can reach learners wherever they are,” Dr Bako said.

“Education is not about the classroom itself but about the content and values within the learning process.”

Franklin Kwetey, President of GATE, described the launch as “an important milestone” in redefining education as a values-driven and transformative force.

He said the association would not only advocate for teachers but also provide a platform to empower them with modern tools and professional support.

“Our vision is to build an association that transforms education into a nation-building enterprise. At GATE, we believe every educator is first a nation-builder, and the quality of our future depends on the values they transmit. Whether through housing support, healthcare initiatives, or modern teaching resources, we want to ensure that teachers are not left behind but are empowered to lead the transformation our world requires,” Mr Kwetey explained

He added that GATE’s outlook was global in scope, with partnerships being developed across continents to address common challenges such as technology integration, moral leadership, and professional development. “Our ultimate goal is to restore dignity to the teaching profession and shape a generation of educators who will inspire transformation in every sphere of society,” Mr Kwetey said.

John Arthur, General Secretary of GATE, highlighted the association’s practical initiatives, including housing schemes, community development projects, healthcare interventions, and exchange programmes.

Unlike other unions, he said, GATE aims to combine advocacy with tangible welfare benefits. “Most agencies focus only on advocacy. We are focusing on shaping the welfare and values of our teachers. With our housing initiative, for example, members can look forward to owning an apartment within 15 years of joining the service,” Mr Arthur assured.

He also pointed out that GATE plans to provide teachers with affordable loans and supplementary health services in collaboration with the National Health Insurance Scheme.

“Our aim is for teachers to access outpatient services without worrying about costs. We want to close the gaps left by existing systems,” he said.

For Eric Mingle, National Organiser of GATE, the uniqueness of the new association lies in its philosophy. “The philosophical background of GATE is different. We believe teachers should enjoy decent accommodation before retirement, not after,” he said.

“We are also committed to equipping members with 21st-century skills, providing laptops and projectors so that they can teach in a modern way,” he added.

Mr. Mingle added that GATE would support teachers in finding additional sources of income to supplement their salaries.

“We are bent on giving teachers side hazards, not depending on salaries alone,” he said.

“With God’s help, GATE has come to stay, and we are inviting all teachers to join us for a better future,” he added.

With its emphasis on values, welfare, and innovation, the association seeks to bridge the gap between traditional education unions and the growing demands of 21st-century education.