In a decisive step towards resolving the ongoing strike by the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG), the President of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), Kyeremeh Oppong Daniel, and the leadership of the Teacher Trainees’ Association of Ghana (TTAG), led by Mr. Abdul Razak, met with the Minister of Education, Hon. Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum.
The meeting aimed at finding a lasting solution to the strike that has disrupted academic activities in colleges of education across the country.
The engagement highlighted a collective effort to explore how the government, CETAG, and the National Labor Commission of Ghana could arrive at a consensus to address the grievances of the striking lecturers.
Government’s Commitment to Address CETAG’s Concerns
The Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum expressed his readiness to meet CETAG representatives to seek a resolution to their concerns. He emphasized the need for dialogue and cooperation, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring that lecturers return to the classroom as soon as possible.
Dr. Osei Adutwum announced that he had directed the Ghana Education Teaching Council (GETEC) to compile a list of all teachers due for promotion and those with the requisite status to be remunerated accordingly.
He assured that his ministry is fully prepared to engage with CETAG and address their concerns within stipulated timelines. This proactive approach is aimed at fostering a conducive teaching and learning environment in the colleges of education.
Proposal for Independent Colleges of Education
In a significant development, the Education Minister welcomed a proposal to grant independence to colleges of education across the country.
He revealed that plans are underway to upgrade the first eight colleges of education to the status of independent universities. This shift aims to reconsider the perpetual affiliations of some colleges of education to public universities, thereby enhancing their autonomy and operational efficiency.
Addressing Economic Challenges
The meeting also addressed the broader economic challenges affecting the education sector. Dr. Osei Adutwum acknowledged concerns over rising costs and inflation, which have impacted teacher feeding.
He emphasized that the government is actively reviewing feeding grant allocations to ensure they meet the nutritional needs of both teachers and students, stressing that the government is committed to implementing adjustments to reflect the current economic realities.
Teacher Trainee Allowance and Infrastructure Development
Commenting on the delay in the disbursement of teacher trainee allowances, Dr. Osei Adutwum assured that the processing of two months’ arrears is nearing completion, and payments will be made shortly.
This move is expected to alleviate the financial strain on trainees and help them focus on their studies without undue stress.
The Minister also addressed the infrastructure deficit in various colleges of education. He acknowledged the urgent need for upgrading facilities to provide a conducive learning environment.
He pointed out that plans are underway to renovate existing structures, build new classrooms and dormitories, and equip laboratories with modern tools and technologies to enhance the quality of education and training.
Delayed Postings of 2022 Graduates
Additionally, Dr. Osei Adutwum clarified that the delay in posting 2022 graduates is due to changes in the posting process aimed at allowing graduates to choose their preferred posts.
The new process according to him ensures better alignment between graduates’ qualifications and job placements, adding that appointment letters will now be issued at no charge, removing a financial burden that graduates previously faced.
Improvements in Pre-Tertiary Education
The Education Minister highlighted significant improvements in pre-tertiary education, particularly efforts to equip junior high schools to better prepare students for the transition to senior high school.
This initiative aims to bridge the educational gap and ensure a seamless progression for students.
In their closing remarks, the leadership of NUGS and TTAG expressed their profound appreciation to the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, and the government for their attentive and proactive approach to addressing the concerns of Ghanaian students.
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