In a bold move, three major teacher unions in Ghana – the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT) – have collectively declared a nationwide strike. This decision comes as a response to what they perceive as the government's negligence in addressing their conditions of service.
At the forefront of their grievances is the ongoing withholding of teachers' salaries, which has caused significant distress among educators across the country. Additionally, the unions cite unilateral changes to timetables without prior consultation, as well as delays in the distribution of laptops to teachers, as key issues that have prompted this drastic action.
Isaac Owusu, the National President of GNAT, emphasized the urgency of the situation during a media briefing. He highlighted the concerns surrounding the distribution of laptops to teachers and expressed frustration over the frequent changes to school calendars without proper negotiation with the unions. Moreover, Owusu underscored the impact of the Office of the Special Prosecutor's blockage of teachers' salaries, which has been done without adherence to established procedures.
"In light of these circumstances and considering the delays and unfulfilled promises from the employer and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, as well as threats from our members, we, the pre-tertiary teacher unions, stand in solidarity with our members and hereby declare a nationwide industrial action effective today, Wednesday, March 20, 2024, to press home our demands," stated Owusu.
The decision to embark on a nationwide strike reflects the deep-rooted frustrations among teachers regarding the lack of attention to their welfare and working conditions. As the strike takes effect, it serves as a poignant reminder of the vital role that educators play in shaping the future of Ghana and underscores the urgent need for meaningful dialogue and action to address their concerns.
