CETAG Declares Indefinite Strike Over Breach of Agreements and Delayed Payments
Introduction:
The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has announced an indefinite industrial action effective January 2, 2025. This decision comes after several unresolved issues with the government, including delayed implementation of agreements and outstanding payments.
Background:
CETAG’s decision was made during an Emergency National Council meeting held on December 30, 2024. The strike follows months of unaddressed grievances despite multiple attempts at dialogue with key stakeholders. CETAG had previously served strike notices on September 26 and December 23, 2024, but no resolution was reached.
Key Issues Leading to the Strike:
1. Non-compliance with the National Labour Commission’s (NLC) Compulsory Arbitration Award of May 2, 2023.
2. Delayed migration of teaching staff to affiliate universities' pay structures, a process overdue by 20 months.
3. Failure to pay a one-month basic salary compensation for 2022 work, ordered by the NLC.
4. Unissued appointment letters based on updated staff audit reports.
5. Unpaid research allowances for staff at Akrokerri College of Education.
6. NLC’s failure to enforce compliance with its own directives.
Impact of the Strike:
CETAG members have vowed to suspend all official duties, including teaching, supervision of projects, and macro-teaching activities, until all demands are met.
CETAG’s Statement:
The association emphasized their commitment to the cause, stating:
> “Members of the union shall not, under any circumstance, return to the colleges to undertake any official duties until the last pesewa is paid into our accounts.”
Next Steps:
CETAG has urged all zonal chairmen to ensure compliance within their respective jurisdictions. The government and relevant stakeholders are expected to take immediate steps to address the union’s demands to avoid disruptions in academic activities at colleges of education.
Conclusion:
This indefinite strike highlights the critical need for timely resolution of labor disputes in the education sector. The outcome of this standoff will set a significant precedent for future engagements between CETAG and the government.
