Teacher unions issue three-week ultimatum to govt over pension arrears, laptops

Three Teacher Unions, comprising the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT), have expressed deep concern over the government’s failure to address their longstanding grievances.

The unions have warned that the government’s inaction is causing significant unrest among teachers, which could disrupt industrial peace.

In a press release, the unions highlighted several unfulfilled promises from the Collective Agreement signed on 24th May 2024 including initiation of negotiations on the Deprived Area Allowance by the Minister for Education within one month of signing the agreement, resolution of promotions from Deputy Director (DD) to Director II (DII) and then to Director I (DI) by September 2024.

Also the collaboration between the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) to correct salary disparities for DD and below in the GES and the delivery of TM1 laptops to all teachers whose money was deducted, with a new deadline of August 31, 2024.

The unions also raised other major challenges, including 12 months of arrears for their Tier-2 deductions and issues with the Public Services Commission (PSC), such as delays in upgrading, difficulties in reinstatement, and rank reduction.

The unions have called on the GES, the Ministry of Education, and all relevant authorities to act swiftly to address these issues by Monday, September 16, 2024 a failure to do so will result in the unions determining their next course of action.

Thomas T. Musah, General Secretary of GNAT, Angel Cabonu, President of NAGRAT, and King Ali Awudu, President of CCT-GH, signed the press release, emphasising the urgency of the situation.

Source:citinewsroom.com