The leadership of the three teacher unions in the Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo Regions has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the government, demanding the payment of specific teacher allowances, or they will express their discontent.
These unions comprise the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT-Gh).
During a press conference in Sunyani, the unions called on the government to fulfill payments for the Deprived Area, Extra Assessment, Book/Data/Online Teaching Support, and Upward Adjustment of Continued Professional Development Allowances.
They expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s perceived lack of urgency and failure to honor the allowances outlined in their Collective Bargaining Agreement by May 13, 2024.
Mr. Adobasom Ibrahim, the Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo Regional Secretary of GNAT, warned that if the government fails to meet their demands, the unions will have no choice but to go on strike.
Joined by Mr. Augustine Akwowoki and Mr. William Owusu Acheaw, the Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo Regional Secretaries of NAGRAT and CCT-Gh respectively, Mr. Adobasom emphasized that the unions are also seeking comprehensive and satisfactory agreements that address the welfare, job security, and professional development of teachers.
“We have reached a tipping point with the employer’s indifference, complacency, and lack of cooperation,” he asserted.
Mr. Adobasom urged the Ghana Education Service to establish and implement a service scheme that clearly outlines the qualifications for teachers, head-teachers, or Directors.
“Our terms of service and scheme of service are pivotal documents that define our employment conditions,” he emphasized. However, he lamented that the government’s procrastination in negotiating and finalizing these documents has led to uncertainty, demotivation, and discontent among teachers.
Adobasom highlighted the indispensable role of teachers in realizing the country’s educational goals, emphasizing that teachers significantly influence and determine the outcomes of the learning process, thus ensuring the success of the educational system.
“Nevertheless, despite our dedicated efforts and goodwill, the government has shown a consistent lack of dedication and urgency in addressing our concerns,” he remarked.
