The educational landscape in Ghana faces a major disruption today as the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has officially declared an immediate and indefinite strike action.
In a strongly worded memorandum released by the National Executive Committee (NEC) this morning, Monday, 24th November 2025, the association directed all members across the country to withdraw all services until further notice.
Why the Strike?
According to the memo, signed by National President Mr. Maxwell Bunu and National Secretary Mr. Fidelis Kamaayi, the decision comes after the government’s "persistent failure" to implement agreements. Specifically, CETAG cites the lack of implementation of the National Labour Commission (NLC) arbitral award originally decided back in May 2023.
Despite repeated reminders and engagements, CETAG leadership says their patience has worn thin. The strike is necessitated by five key grievances:
Unpaid Compensation: Failure to pay "All-Year-Round Work Compensation" for duties performed in 2022 across 39 Colleges of Education (with only partial payment made to Accra College of Education).
Research Allowance Arrears: Outstanding Book and Research Allowance arrears for the 2023/2024 academic year.
Previous Arrears: Outstanding Book and Research Allowance arrears for the 2022/2023 academic year.
Specific College Debt: Outstanding Top-up arrears for the 2021/2022 academic year specifically owed to Akrokerri College of Education.
Unfair Downgrading: A major point of contention is the "downgrading of experienced teaching staff holding master’s degrees," which CETAG argues undermines professional dignity and violates the Labour Act.
"No Member Should Return to the Lecture Halls"
The directive to teachers is clear and uncompromising. The leadership has ordered a total cessation of duties.
What services are withdrawn?
All teaching.
Supervision of students on STS (Supported Teaching in Schools).
Project work vetting.
Community services and related academic duties.
The memo emphasizes: "While CETAG remains committed to quality teacher education, we will not allow our members to be exploited, disrespected, or further impoverished."
What Happens Next?
As of this morning, lecture halls are expected to be empty. CETAG has urged all local chairpersons to ensure full compliance with the directive. The strike will remain in force until all listed grievances are fully resolved.
Students and parents are advised to brace for interruptions in the academic calendar as the standoff between the Teacher Educators and the Government begins.
