From Saleswoman to Educator
Sakina Mahamadu’s Journey to Becoming a Certified Preschool Teacher
"It was difficult"
After graduating from senior high school, Sakina Mahamadu worked as a saleswoman dealing in carpentry supplies and renting benches because she did not have the money to pursue a teaching degree.
Even so, her passion for teaching never faltered. Eventually, she joined the Miracle Valley International School, a low-fee private school in Tamale, Northern Region, as a preschool teacher. "Growing up, I loved sharing knowledge with others, which motivated me to apply for the teaching position," Sakina recounts.
But as a first-time teacher with no formal training, she struggled to navigate classroom dynamics and student needs: "It was difficult helping young children understand what I was teaching," she admits.
Sakina interacting with learners during a lesson in class.
Photo Credit : Eric Adu-Boahen
When Sakina heard that teachers in her school could improve their skills through the USAID-funded Advancing Partnerships for Improved Learning activity, she decided to apply. The six-week Access Program at the University for Development Studies (UDS) helps untrained teachers qualify for admission into the university, equips them with foundational teaching knowledge, and prepares them for further studies, including a degree or diploma in education.
"I attend my lectures on weekends and focus on my personal studies during the evenings," Sakina explains.
Stephen Konlan, the headteacher of Miracle Valley International School, has noticed a positive change in Sakina’s teaching and attributes it to the training. "This program has provided financial assistance and educational opportunities that the school alone couldn’t have offered." He says.
Sakina interacting with her learners in class
Jason Amoo/Opportunity International for USAID/Ghana
Will Sakina go on to do her degree?
Today, Sakina has successfully completed the Access Program and is now pursuing a diploma in basic education. Once completed, she can enroll for a degree in education to become a certified teacher.
Context
- USAID is helping teachers from low-fee private schools in northern Ghana, get diplomas or degrees in education by enrolling in UDS programs.
- For teachers who do not qualify for a diploma or degree, USAID is offering the Access Program at UDS to improve their grades and further their education.
- UDS has set up eight satellite campuses in northern Ghana that provide easy access.
- Between 2023 and 2028, USAID will support 1,278 teachers by paying 75 percent of their course fees, while teachers and school proprietors cover the remaining 25 percent.
Story by
Jason Amoo/Opportunity International with support from Atiewin Mbillah-Lawson USAID/Ghana
Photos by
Eric Adu-Boahen & Jason Amoo