NaCCA Withdraws SHS Teacher Manual Over Gender Identity Content, Issues Revised Version
Council removes Year 2 SHS teacher manual after content on gender identity raised cultural concerns
- NaCCA withdraws SHS teacher manual after certain gender identity content was found to conflict with Ghanaian cultural norms and values
- A revised version has been released
- Council stresses teacher manuals are optional
The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) has withdrawn printed copies of a Senior High School (SHS) teacher manual after acknowledging that certain content on “Gender Identity” in the Year 2 Physical Education and Health (Elective) Teacher Manual conflicted with Ghanaian culture, norms, and values.
A revised edition of the manual, now reflecting national values and biological understanding, has been released.
The decision comes amid accusations by Assin South MP Rev. John Ntim Fordjour that the government was promoting an LGBTQ agenda through teacher manuals and other teaching and learning materials (TLMs) in schools. The controversy focused on a specific definition in the Year 2 Physical Education and Health (Elective) Teacher Manual, a 2024 supplementary guide designed to help teachers implement the new SHS curriculum introduced last academic year.
In response, NaCCA clarified that the official SHS curriculum contains no LGBTQ-related content and emphasized that teacher manuals are optional resources intended solely to guide educators.
“The Government of Ghana has no intention to promote, endorse, or introduce LGBTQ content at any level of the educational system,” the council stated. “Our curriculum remains firmly anchored in Ghanaian socio-cultural values, constitutional principles, and child-centred development goals.”
NaCCA confirmed that all old manuals are being removed from circulation, and future updates will be made available digitally. The council also urged the public and stakeholders to rely on verified facts while discussing the issue.
Director-General Prof. Samuel O. Ofori-Bekoe highlighted the council’s commitment to providing high-quality education aligned with Ghana’s cultural and constitutional principles, ensuring teaching materials reflect national values while supporting effective learning.
