In Ghana, career guidance is often missing or insufficient in many senior high schools, leaving students unsure about their future paths. Many graduates find themselves at a crossroads, uncertain about whether to pursue teacher training, nursing, university, a trade, or starting a business.
Unfortunately, many career decisions are influenced more by rumors, peer pressure, or societal expectations than by informed choices. But how can students make the right decision? Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best career path based on your interests, goals, and skills.
Common Career Misconceptions Among Senior High School Students
Some students may think:
“I won’t teach because teachers aren’t paid well or respected.”
“I’ll do nursing because I love the uniform.”
“I want to go to university because it’s about freedom and fun!”
But is this the right way to choose a career? Let’s take a closer look at each option to help you make a more informed decision.
Should You Choose Teacher Training or University?
If you see yourself teaching one day, you might already be leaning toward an education career. The big question is: Should you go to training college or university?
Training College: The Path for Aspiring Teachers
Duration: 4 years of study in B.Ed Basic Education (similar to university education).
Employment: Automatic employment with the Ghana Education Service (GES) after graduation, though this may change in the future.
Teaching Level: You’ll begin teaching in basic schools (Kindergarten, Lower Primary, Upper Primary, Junior High School).
University: The Path for Senior High School Teachers or Specialized Careers
Duration: 4 years for education-related courses (e.g., B.Ed or other subject-specific degrees).
Employment: No automatic job placement; graduates often have to seek employment after completion.
Challenges: Many university graduates may end up in private schools, unemployed for extended periods, or may switch careers due to unemployment.
Choosing the Right Path for You
If your goal is to become a teacher, here are some factors to consider:
Training College: Provides a more structured environment with a guaranteed job placement in the Ghana Education Service. Despite some perceptions of being treated like a senior high school (SHS) student, the benefits, including job security, can be significant.
University: Ideal if you want to teach at the senior high school level or pursue a specialized subject (e.g., Mathematics, Science). However, note that university graduates don’t have automatic job placement and must actively search for teaching positions.
Salary Considerations for Teachers
One important thing to note is that salary is typically the same for training college graduates and university graduates, regardless of whether you teach in basic schools or senior high schools. Pay is generally based on ranks and qualifications.
What If Teaching Is Not Your Passion?
If you’re considering non-education careers such as engineering, medicine, political science, or technology, then university is the better option for you.
However, if teaching or nursing is your passion, teacher training or nursing training colleges may be the best route to achieving your career goals.
Final Thoughts on Career Choices
Ultimately, the decision is yours. It’s important to know what you want, plan your path, and avoid being pushed into a career by societal pressure. Here are a few tips to guide your decision:
Reflect on your strengths and interests: Do you love teaching, helping others, or exploring new fields of knowledge?
Consider job security and opportunities: Are you willing to take a career path that might require a longer job search, or are you looking for a quicker route to employment?
Don’t be influenced by trends or popular opinions: What works for your peers may not be the best choice for you.
If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to drop them in the comments below, and let’s discuss your career options!
