By: Juventus Kantaayel 

The Ministry of Education has refuted reports claiming that the government intends to abolish teacher trainee allowances, assuring the public that no such decision has been made.

The controversy emerged following remarks made by Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu during an engagement with the Executives of the Principals of Colleges of Education (PRINCOF). However, the Ministry has clarified that the Minister’s comments were misinterpreted, emphasizing that the government remains committed to supporting teacher trainees.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, the Ministry directly addressed concerns raised by a publication in The Daily Graphic titled “Teacher Trainee Allowance to go”, calling the headline “sensational and misleading.”

“The Ministry has taken note of a front-page publication in the Tuesday, 4th February 2025 edition of The Daily Graphic with the headline ‘Teacher Trainee Allowance to go.’ The headline is not only sensational but misleading, as their narration of the story indicated,” the statement read.

The Ministry further reassured teacher trainees that allowances will remain in place until all stakeholders reach a consensus on any potential reforms. It also hinted at the possibility of enhancing financial support through an improved student loan scheme, should the need arise.

Additionally, the Ministry urged media houses to verify information before publication to prevent unnecessary alarm among students, educators, and the general public.

“We urge the public to disregard the misleading publication and rely on official communication from the Ministry for accurate information,” the statement concluded.

With this clarification, the government seeks to reaffirm its commitment to teacher education and ensure that financial support for trainees remains a priority.