The Obuasi Municipality has, once again, maintained its first position on the nationwide ranking of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

Mr. Johnny Owusu-Boadi, Municipal Director of Education, who disclosed this at the 2012 Best Teacher Awards held at Obuasi, noted: "I am pleased to announce to you that the municipality maintained its first position in the national ranking of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) with an improved percentage."

The Municipal Director of Education commended the teachers for their dedication to work, and urged them not to be complacent.

Mr. Eric Opoku, Ashanti Regional Minister, noted that the theme "Teacher Motivation - The Key To Academic Excellence" selected for the day was unique, since those who imparted knowledge or moulded character needed to be motivated adequately to help improve performance.

The Ashanti Regional Director of Education, Mr. Kofi Sarfo-Kantanka, warned that he would not hesitate to withdraw the services of teachers from communities which were hostile to teachers.

He commended the Obuasi Municipal Assembly and other stakeholders for consistently recognising the good works of teachers, and appealed to the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council to find a means of supporting and encouraging other assemblies to organise best teacher award ceremonies in their districts, to help improve education performances in schools in the region.

In all, twenty-nine teaching and non-teaching staff were honoured.

Ms. Valentina Getrude Asamoah of Primary "B" took the first prize in the primary category, with the Junior High category going to Ms Gladys Kenyenso, whilst Mr. Gilbert Benjamin Opoku took the prize in the basic technical and vocational category, with Madam Alice Odure emerging as the Best Head Teacher for the JHS category.