Three major pre-tertiary education labour unions, namely the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers-Ghana (CCT-Gh), have announced an industrial strike effective Wednesday, March 20, 2024.
The unions expressed their dissatisfaction with what they describe as poor conditions of service in a statement released on March 20, 2024.
In their statement, the unions highlighted several key issues that have been the subject of ongoing discussions and negotiations with the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service (GES).
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Firstly, the unions expressed concern over the delayed negotiation of the collective agreement. The previous agreement expired in 2023, and the negotiation process for a new agreement was expected to be completed by February 29, 2024. However, this has not yet been resolved, leading to increased frustration among the unions.
The absence of a functional Scheme of Service for Teachers within the GES was also brought to the attention of the Director General.
The unions emphasized the need for a clear and comprehensive scheme that addresses all the requirements of the teaching profession. Despite raising this concern repeatedly, no action has been taken to address the issue.
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In addition to the above, the unions have highlighted three other crucial matters that affect teachers’ well-being.
Firstly, they expressed concern over the government’s failure to distribute laptops to all teachers, which they believe is crucial for enhancing the quality of education.
Secondly, they raised objections to frequent changes in the school calendar without proper consultation with the teacher unions, resulting in disruptions to the smooth operation of the education system.
Lastly, the blockage of teachers’ salaries by the Office of Special Prosecutor without following the appropriate procedures has become a major worry for the unions.
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Given the delays, unfulfilled promises from the employer and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), as well as threats from their members, the pre-tertiary teacher unions have decided to take a stand.
They have declared a nationwide industrial action (strike) on March 20, 2024. With this action, they aim to put pressure on the authorities to address the aforementioned concerns and improve the conditions of service for teachers across the country.