Portia Dzifa Dzilah (M) has finally won the 2025 Global Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Award

Ghanaian teacher, Portia Dzifa Dzilah, has once again brought global recognition to the country after winning the 2025 Global Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Award, organised by Cambridge University Press and Assessment for Sub-Saharan Africa.

Dzilah, an English teacher at Pakro Anglican Basic School in the Akuapim South District, made history in April 2025 when she became the first Ghanaian to win the regional Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Award since the competition’s inception seven years ago.

She was selected by the judges for her outstanding dedication to the young learners in her community.

According to graphic.com.gh, Dzilah secured 33 percent of the global public vote, outperforming eight other regional finalists worldwide.

Her win was announced in a surprise video call from Rod Smith, Group Managing Director of International Education at Cambridge, who informed her that she had not only won the regional award but had also clinched the overall global title.

Following the announcement, a special ceremony was held at Pakro Anglican Basic School, where representatives from Cambridge, local education authorities, and community members came together to celebrate her remarkable achievement.

“I want to thank my students. They are my greatest inspiration. Their strength, curiosity, and determination remind me every day why I teach. I believe in the potential of every child and that education can break cycles and open doors. This recognition renews my commitment even more deeply,” Portia was quoted to have said after she was given the award.

Portia dedicated her award to every girl who defies the odds to stay in school and to every parent who believes in the power of education to create a brighter future.

She emphasised, “Let us continue to build a world where education truly transforms lives.”

As part of her recognition, Portia will have the opportunity to enrol in a professional development course of her choice through Cambridge’s Enrichment Programme.

Adding to the excitement, her story and photograph will be featured on the thank-you page of a selection of Cambridge textbooks, set for release in November 2025. Additionally, she will be highlighted in Cambridge’s global promotional materials throughout the year.

Rod Smith, the Group Manager, praised Portia’s exceptional dedication, noting that her influence extends far beyond the classroom.

He stated, “Some educators are simply born to teach. Portia's unwavering belief in the transformative power of education is both inspiring and deeply moving,” he said, adding that she brings not only knowledge to her students, but hope, encouragement, and a vision for what their futures can be.”

This year’s victory underscores the profound impact of dedicated educators working in challenging environments, highlighting their vital role in shaping not only academic success but also the future of communities and nations.

Portia’s achievement stands as both a personal milestone and a national moment of pride for Ghana, celebrating the transformative power of committed teaching in under-resourced communities.

Despite facing significant socio-economic challenges such as high pupil absenteeism and teenage pregnancy, Pakro, a remote farming town in the Eastern Region, continues to strive for educational progress.

Amid these obstacles, Portia has emerged as a beacon of hope, demonstrating unwavering dedication to improving the lives of her students, particularly young girls.

Her impactful initiatives include food and sanitary product drives, ensuring students have basic necessities, and the establishment of a Gender Club, which actively advocates for girls’ education and helps keep young learners in school.

About the award

The Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards honour exceptional educators who go above and beyond to positively shape the lives of their students.

Now in its seventh year, the award recognises primary and secondary school teachers who demonstrate remarkable dedication to their learners' growth and success.

It provides a platform for students, parents, and colleagues to recognise these teachers.

VKB/MA