By Peter Agengre
Deputy Minister for Education, Dr Clement Abas Apaak, has presented a personal gift of GH¢10,000 to Abdul Yussif Fatahu, a teacher recognised for his dedication to educating children in Bawku despite the area’s prolonged conflict.
The gesture was made in recognition of Mr Fatahu’s resilience and commitment to teaching in a community that has faced years of insecurity.
Mr Fatahu, who has spent nearly two decades teaching in Bawku, came into the national spotlight following a feature by GBC News Upper East Regional Correspondent Peter Agengre, which highlighted his determination to remain at his post and continue educating children in the conflict-affected area.
Presenting the donation, Dr Apaak, who is also the Member of Parliament for Builsa South, said the teacher’s commitment deserved recognition and appreciation. He explained that acknowledging such dedication would not only encourage Mr Fatahu but also inspire other teachers and public servants who continue to work in Bawku despite the challenges.
“I am privileged to be in the company of a very dedicated, committed and loyal teacher who has spent 20 good years teaching in Bawku. We often look too far for heroes, but if we look closer, we live with heroes every day,” he said.
Dr Apaak noted that the prolonged conflict had affected many public institutions, including schools and health facilities.
“The volatile situation has affected many public institutions, including teaching and nursing. To come across the story of a teacher who has stayed and continued teaching in an environment where many have fled for 20 years convinced me that this story needed amplification,” he said.
Receiving the donation, Mr Fatahu expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying his decision to remain in Bawku had always been driven by his passion for education and his belief that children in the area deserve the opportunity to learn and build a better future.
“It is an honour to be in the presence of the Deputy Minister for Education. I am very grateful for this recognition. As he has said, I will continue to sacrifice for the future of our children and serve as a role model for my colleagues to continue serving Mother Ghana,” he said.
Mr Fatahu’s story has become a symbol of resilience among educators working under difficult conditions, highlighting the sacrifices many teachers make to ensure children continue to receive an education despite insecurity.
Education stakeholders believe that, beyond financial support, such recognition helps boost the morale of teachers and encourages more professionals to remain committed to serving communities in need.
