Behind every successful student, there’s often a teacher who inspired them to dream bigger. At Reader Space, we believe in celebrating the people who shape our minds and futures — so today, we bring you a special interview with Mr. Daniel Owusu, a junior high school teacher from Kumasi, Ghana.
With over 15 years of experience, Mr. Daniel is not just an educator — he’s a mentor, a motivator, and a life-changer. Let’s dive into his story.
Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and why you became a teacher?
Mr. Daniel:
I’m a teacher at St. Michael’s Basic School in Kumasi. I teach English and Social Studies. I became a teacher because I’ve always believed in the power of words and education. I grew up in a small town where not many kids made it to senior high school, and I wanted to change that narrative. Teaching gives me that opportunity every day.
Q: What does a typical day look like for you?
Mr. Daniel:
I get to school by 7:00 AM. We start with assembly, then it’s straight into classes. My day is packed with lessons, marking assignments, and sometimes counseling students who just need someone to talk to. I don’t leave school until after 4 PM. Even then, I go home to prepare the next day’s lessons.
Q: What challenges do you face as a teacher in Ghana?
Mr. Daniel:
There are many — lack of teaching materials, large class sizes, and sometimes very limited resources. But the biggest challenge is helping students believe in themselves when the odds are stacked against them. Some come from homes where education isn’t prioritized, so I try to be their source of hope.
Q: What’s your favorite moment as a teacher?
Mr. Daniel:
One of my students, Ama, used to struggle in English and always sat at the back of the class. I worked with her after school for months. She ended up getting one of the highest scores in the BECE that year. She came back after SHS just to say thank you. That moment… I’ll never forget it.
Q: What advice would you give to students who are struggling?
Mr. Daniel:
Don’t give up. Struggle is part of the journey. Ask for help when you need it, stay consistent, and believe that you are capable of more than you think. One day you’ll look back and thank yourself for not quitting.
Q: Final Thought?
Mr. Daniel:
Teaching is more than a job — it’s a calling. If you have even one student who remembers your name for the rest of their life, then you’ve done something meaningful.
Mr. Daniel’s story reminds us that behind every lesson taught is a heart that cares. Teachers like him are the silent heroes of our society, and we’re honored to share his story here on Reader Space.
