Teachers

NTC Introduces New CPD Framework for Teachers: 20 Points Annual Requirement

16th September 2025

Ferdinand | EducationGhana | September 16 | NTC Introduces New CPD Framework for Teachers: 20 Points Annual Requirement

The National Teaching Council (NTC) has revised the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) framework, requiring all teachers to earn 20 CPD points annually. The new system emphasizes accountability, affordability, and fairness.

NTC Clarifies CPD Reforms

The National Teaching Council (NTC) has announced a new Continuous Professional Development (CPD) framework for teachers, aimed at strengthening teacher professionalism while addressing longstanding concerns about fairness and cost. The revised framework requires all teachers, irrespective of rank, to earn 20 CPD points annually.

The decision comes after widespread consultations with teacher unions, service providers, and education stakeholders. Previously, CPD point requirements varied across teaching ranks, sparking calls for a uniform and equitable system.

Categories of CPD Activities

According to the NTC, teachers can earn their CPD points from four main sources:

Professional Learning Communities (PLCs): School-based learning activities, provided free by the employer.
National CPD Days: Organized by NTC and GES, with partial cost-sharing by teachers.
Specialised/Targeted CPD: Run by accredited service providers, often fee-based.
Recommended or Self-Initiated CPD: Optional programmes, including online or professional workshops.

This structure aims to balance mandatory state-supported programmes with flexible, teacher-driven opportunities.

Cost and Accountability

One of the most debated issues in the CPD rollout has been the financial burden on teachers. The NTC insists that PLCs remain free, while National CPD Days and specialised programmes may attract modest costs. To address abuse, the Council has pledged strict accreditation and monitoring of service providers to prevent teachers from being overcharged.

“The CPD system is not designed for exploitation. It is designed to uphold standards, promote growth, and ensure fairness,” the Council stressed in a statement.

Implementation and Oversight

The framework mandates schools and heads of institutions to facilitate PLCs and ensure teachers update their CPD portfolios via the Teacher Portal Ghana (TPG). CPD points will be digitally tracked to maintain transparency.

Teachers who fail to meet the annual requirement risk challenges with license renewal and professional progression.

Implications for Teachers

The reform has several key implications:

Equity: All teachers will now work toward the same annual target of 20 CPD points.
Accountability: Every CPD programme must be accredited and recorded on the TPG system.
Financial Relief: Free PLCs and employer-supported initiatives will reduce costs, though concerns remain about service provider charges.
Professional Growth: Teachers gain structured opportunities to upgrade skills in curriculum delivery, assessment, leadership, and digital literacy.

Teacher Reactions

While many teachers have welcomed the clarity and fairness of the 20-point structure, others remain concerned about the affordability of CPD activities offered by private providers. Teacher unions have urged the NTC to ensure affordable access and prevent profiteering within the system.