The Ghana National Association of Teachers Ladies Society (GNAT-LAS) in the Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese (AAK) District of the Central Region has appealed to the government to extend the country’s current 12-week paid maternity leave for nursing mothers in the public sector to a minimum of six months.

According to the Association, a longer maternity leave period would provide nursing mothers, particularly teachers, the needed time to care for their newborns and adequately prepare to return to their classroom responsibilities.

The call was made by Catherine Asaam, outgoing GNAT-LAS District Coordinator and Headteacher of Brafoyaw AME Zion 'B' Basic School, during the 7th Quadrennial GNAT-LAS District Roundtable held on Tuesday, May 12, 2025, in Abura Dunkwa.

She emphasised the alignment of their proposal with health experts’ recommendations of six months of exclusive breastfeeding for newborns.

“Our request is rooted in both maternal and child health concerns, and the practical challenges female teachers face after childbirth,” she said.

“Extending the leave to at least six months will greatly benefit both mother and child, and support teachers in resuming their duties more effectively.”

Held under the theme “The Ghana Education Service @50: Achievements, Challenges and the Way Forward in Motivating the Female Teacher for Quality Education Delivery,” the event brought together several dignitaries, including the District Chief Executive, Ms. Henrietta Baah; Regional GNAT-LAS Coordinator; and Regional GNAT Chairman, Engineer Dr. Wilberforce Eshun.

Addressing the gathering, Mr Daniel Mensah Wardy, District Chief Executive for AAK, acknowledged the call and noted that the governing NDC had already pledged in its 2024 manifesto to extend maternity leave to four months.

He assured participants that he would draw the attention of party leadership to the GNAT-LAS’ renewed request.

Guest speaker Mrs. Henrietta Ghartey Paintsil, Central Regional Manageress of the AME Zion Educational Unit, highlighted the crucial role female teachers play in national development.

“Empowering the female teacher is key to empowering students and building the nation,” she stated, noting that basic education is now accessible to all Ghanaian children thanks to the tireless efforts of educators, especially women.

The event also featured an exhibition by all six GNAT-LAS locals in the district, a Miss GNAT-LAS beauty contest, and elections for new district executives.