The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has issued a stern rebuke against the ruling government, accusing it of reneging on agreements made to resolve disputes and improve the welfare of teacher educators.
In a detailed press release, CETAG expressed its “disappointment and frustration” with the government’s failure to uphold commitments made in recent agreements.
CETAG’s leadership conveyed a palpable sense of betrayal, describing the government’s actions as a breach of faith and a disregard for the dedicated teachers who play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s educational landscape.
CETAG’s grievances stem from two recent agreements: a memorandum of understanding signed on July 24, 2024, and a subsequent agreement on August 19, 2024, both aimed at addressing core issues affecting CETAG members.
In August 2024, following these discussions, CETAG called off a prolonged strike that had stretched over two months, after an appeal by the Senior Advisor to the Vice President.
The Association’s leadership stated that they had acted in good faith by suspending the strike, relying on assurances that the government would promptly address their concerns.
However, CETAG alleged that the government has failed to fulfil its commitments, particularly the migration of CETAG members to the public universities’ salary structure by the end of October 2024 and the payment of a one-month basic salary as compensation for additional work undertaken by CETAG members in 2022.
This compensation, they noted, was mandated by the National Labour Commission (NLC) on May 2, 2023.
“As of today, there has not been any feedback from the Minister for Education, the Minister for Employment and Labour Relations, and the Senior Advisor to the Vice President regarding their failure to honour their assurances to members of CETAG by addressing the outstanding concerns by the end of October 2024”.
National President: Mr. Prince Obeng-Himah; and Ag. National Secretary: Mr. Thomas Ampomah
A Pattern of Government Neglect
This inaction, according to CETAG, signals a concerning pattern of neglect by the government, one that CETAG perceived as a deliberate attempt to undermine the welfare of college educators.
CETAG criticized the lack of communication from these officials, emphasizing that no follow-up has been made regarding the pledged payments or the structural salary adjustments.
“The silence from these authorities demonstrates a lack of respect for CETAG members,” the statement read, underscoring how this disregard is felt deeply by educators who play an essential role in training the nation’s teachers and contributing to Ghana’s educational progress.
The Association also pointed to the Education Minister’s recent television appearance, where he allegedly insinuated that CETAG’s leadership was acting in “bad faith” by questioning some of the terms outlined in the July 2024 memorandum of agreement.
CETAG countered this portrayal, arguing that it is, in fact, the government’s own behavior that has demonstrated a lack of commitment to resolving their concerns.
Years of Broken Promises: CETAG’s Struggle for Equity
In its statement, CETAG highlighted a history of “fruitless meetings” with the government over the past two years.
CETAG claimed that authorities have repeatedly made promises that went unfulfilled, adding that despite the NLC’s Compulsory Arbitration Award in favour of CETAG members, the government has, according to CETAG, continuously stalled on these commitments, creating an illusion of progress while ultimately neglecting the issues that matter to CETAG members.
CETAG voiced its frustration with these tactics, accusing the government of “cunningly” using discussions as a way to evade meaningful action, suggesting that the authorities have systematically deprioritized the welfare of teacher educators.
The cumulative effect of these experiences has led CETAG to conclude that the government’s promises to meet their demands are “a mirage.”
Imminent Action as CETAG’s Patience Runs Thin
In a warning that could signal further disruptions in Ghana’s education sector, CETAG has resolved to “take [their] destinies into [their] own hands henceforth.”
Although the Association did not specify what actions it will take, CETAG made it clear that they are preparing to escalate its response.
“We shall soon advise ourselves accordingly,” the statement concluded, hinting at possible action that could impact the country’s education system if the government fails to meet its commitments.
CETAG’s statement called on stakeholders and the general public to recognize the plight of teacher educators, urging support in holding the Government accountable for its promises.
As the deadline set by CETAG approaches, the Association is resolved to secure equitable treatment for its members with the looming possibility of another strike or other forms of industrial action if the government does not act swiftly to address their grievances.
The statement was signed by CETAG National President, Mr. Prince Obeng-Himah and the Ag. National Secretary Mr Thomas Ampomah.
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