Debate Motion: “Teachers’ Services Are Essential in Society and They Deserve Higher Salaries”

Wisdom Klu, the writer

Teachers Deserve Better Pay for Their Essential Role in Society.

Honourable Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Judges, Education Sector Workers, Fellow Debaters, and Esteemed Readers,

I write in support of the motion that teachers play an essential role in society and should be compensated fairly for their contributions. Education is the foundation upon which all other professions are built. 

Without teachers, who would prepare the doctors who save lives, the engineers who shape our cities, or the leaders who guide our nations? Teachers are the bridge through which knowledge is passed from one generation to the next. Yet, despite their crucial role, they remain underappreciated and underpaid.

Some may argue that fields like medicine, law enforcement, and engineering provide more immediate benefits to society. While it is true that doctors save lives, police officers ensure public safety, and engineers design our infrastructure, none of these professionals would exist without the guidance of a teacher.

 Every successful career begins in a classroom where educators lay the foundation for future achievements.

The importance of teachers is not just a matter of opinion—it is backed by evidence. According to a 2024 UNESCO report, "Teachers play a vital role in shaping the future, unlocking every learner’s potential" (unesco.org). 

This statement highlights the profound influence educators have on society’s progress. They nurture young minds, shaping the thinkers and innovators who drive our world forward. If their role is so significant, is it not reasonable to ensure they are fairly compensated?

Beyond shaping individual lives, education has a direct impact on public health and social stability. Research from the World Bank reveals that higher literacy rates lead to improved health outcomes (nec.edu). 

Educated populations are more likely to seek medical care, follow treatment plans, and maintain healthier lifestyles. This reduces the burden on healthcare systems and contributes to longer life expectancy. In this light, teachers play an indirect but vital role in maintaining public health—just as important as any medical professional.

Education also plays a critical role in national security. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) notes that countries with higher levels of education experience lower crime rates. When people have better access to education and employment opportunities, they are less likely to turn to criminal activities. 

By investing in teachers, society can prevent crime before it begins, reducing reliance on law enforcement and enhancing social stability.

Despite their importance, teachers in many countries continue to face low wages and inadequate working conditions. The International Labour Organization (ILO) reports that educators often earn 15-30% less than other professionals with similar qualifications (oecd.org). 

This wage disparity discourages talented individuals from entering the teaching profession, leading to teacher shortages and overcrowded classrooms. Without competitive salaries, it is difficult to attract and retain skilled educators, which jeopardizes the quality of education and the future workforce.

Some suggest that teaching is a calling and that passion should be enough to sustain educators. However, no other profession is expected to survive on dedication alone. Doctors, engineers, and legal professionals are compensated in line with the value of their work—why should teachers be treated differently? 

According to the OECD, countries that offer higher teacher salaries tend to see better student outcomes and long-term economic benefits (oecd.org). Fair compensation for teachers is not just a moral obligation—it is a practical investment in national progress.

Consider Finland, a nation renowned for its exceptional education system. One key to their success is the value they place on teachers. Finnish educators receive competitive salaries and enjoy a high level of societal respect. 

This approach has contributed to an innovative, well-informed workforce and sustained economic growth (gpseducation.oecd.org). If we aspire to similar success, we must follow their example by prioritizing and rewarding our educators.

Critics may argue that increasing teachers' salaries would place a financial strain on the government. However, the cost of underpaying teachers is far greater. 

Low teacher wages weaken the education system, leading to an unskilled workforce and slower economic development. Failing to invest in teachers today creates long-term challenges that are far more expensive to address.

If governments can allocate significant funds for infrastructure, military expenditures, and the salaries of politicians, why not prioritize education? Policymakers, who shape national agendas, are well-compensated—yet the educators who equip them with knowledge often struggle financially. 

This disparity is unjust. If we are serious about national development, we must acknowledge that education is the cornerstone of progress—and that begins with valuing our teachers.

In conclusion, the evidence is undeniable: teachers are the foundation of every profession, the driving force behind social progress, and the guardians of knowledge. Without them, our society would stagnate. 

Yet, they are often asked to perform this critical work while facing financial hardship. A society that undervalues its educators risks its future. If we truly believe in the power of education, we must ensure teachers receive the compensation and respect they deserve.

I firmly support the motion that teachers provide an indispensable service to society and should be rewarded with fair and competitive salaries.

Thank you.

Wisdom Koudjo Klu

Educationist/Columnist, Greater Accra Region

wisdomklu@gmail.com

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