The second edition of the Outstanding Teacher Summit (OuTS), held in June 2024, at the Accra College of Education brought a new experience to teacher projection.
The Summit, convened by Madam Stella Gyimaah Larbi, Ghana’s Most Outstanding Teacher 2022 and organized by OUT International her non-profit organisation, aimed to celebrate the achievement of teachers, promote innovative teaching practices, and foster collaboration among educators and industry experts had about seven hundred (700) educators in attendance.
The summit was chaired by Dr. Mrs. I. Stella Agyenim-Boateng, Vice Chairman, Public Services Commission and had a list of speakers including Dr. Kimberly West, Founder & President of Teach STEM Africa, Middle Grades Science Educator: Mrs. Mavis Leonards, CEO – Global Sky Ltd. / Novalle Ebullience Ltd., co-Founder – A Jewel in the Street Foundation and the Keynote Speaker as Dr. Maxwell Ampong, CEO, Maxwell Investments Group.
The two Panel sessions comprised industry players like Dr. Legena Roberts-Kpinkpin, STEM Career Specialist and Dr. Gorkel Obro-Adibo, Director, Global Wings Travel and Tour. The Educators panel included: Chief Iddi-Amin Fredous, 2nd Runner-up, Ghana’s Most Outstanding Teacher 2023, Ivy Kinful Brew, Peer Educator and Senior High Science Teacher, Alexandria Walton, Elementary Math & Science Educator, Gord-Afful, Lecturer & Memory Trainer.
Panelists discussed the intersection of education and industry, highlighting the need for teachers to stay updated with industry trends, encourage hands-on learning, and volunteerism.
The panel for Educators witnessed panelists share their experiences and best practices in teaching. Discussions focused on innovative teaching methods, peer education, memory training, and the importance of building student confidence.
Additionally, an address from Mr. Sabastian Adama a representative for the Greater Regional Director of Education extended Director Bamfo’s commitment to teacher advancement and his interest in the Outstanding Teacher Summit. He congratulated Madam Gyimaah for her achievement as Ghana’s Outstanding Teacher 2022, highlighting her role in paving the way for fellow educators to enhance their learning.
Mr. Clifford Henaku Budu the Municipal Director of Education for Ashiaman Municipality on behalf of other directors present, encouraged teachers to remain open to learning and to continue positively influencing the lives of both students and colleagues.
Dr. Ampong emphasized the pivotal role of teachers in shaping society, pointing strongly to the need for teachers to make their voices heard to drive home the critical role they play.
Activities on the side were Project Fair, where teachers and students presented their innovative projects, and the launch of the Outstanding Teacher Magazine dedicated to highlighting the work of exceptional teachers.The inaugural issue featured Dr Shine Agatha Ofori, Headteacher of West Africa SHS, as the spotlight teacher.
The second edition of ‘The Outstanding’ was a success despite logistical challenges and sponsorship.
