Teacher Unions Demand Urgent Action from GES on Pertinent Issues

Teacher Unions in Ghana, including the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and Coalition of Concerned Teachers Ghana (CCT-GH), have raised critical concerns with the Ghana Education Service (GES) regarding issues they describe as “disturbing, irritating, and worrying.”

In a letter addressed to the Director-General of GES, the unions outlined their grievances and warned that failure to address them by November 30, 2024, could disrupt the industrial peace within the education sector.

Key Issues Highlighted by the Unions:

1. Taxation of the Complimentary Digital Instruction Support Allowance
   The unions expressed their strong opposition to the taxation of the Complimentary Digital Instruction Support Allowance, a benefit agreed upon earlier. They cautioned that any deductions would spark discontent among teachers, stressing that the Ministry of Education (MoE) and GES would bear the blame for any resulting unrest.
2. Transitional Period for Teachers Opting Out of TVET Service
   The unions demanded a transitional period for teachers wishing to exit the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Service and return to mainstream GES. They argued that this process should be free of restrictions, fear, or intimidation. The unions also opposed the compulsory inclusion of teachers in the TVET Service without due consultation, warning that such actions could face resistance.
3. Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Concerns
   The unions criticized the coercive tactics employed by some school heads and district directors to compel teachers to attend CPD workshops. They described this as exploitation and intimidation, emphasizing that participation in professional development programs should be voluntary and free of undue pressure.

ALSO READ: GESOPS Invites Members to Participate in 2024 Performance Review Survey

Call for Action

The unions urged the GES to address these issues promptly to maintain the harmonious industrial environment that has existed thus far. “Failure of the Employer to heed our call and expectations would have the Employer having himself to blame,” the letter warned.

The unions reminded GES of the mounting tension among teachers, emphasizing the need to resolve these matters before the November 30 deadline to avoid further escalation.

Conclusion

Signed by Thomas T. Musah (General Secretary, GNAT), Angel Carbonu (President, NAGRAT), and King Ali (President, CCT-GH), the letter underscores the unions’ commitment to protecting the welfare of their members while ensuring industrial peace.

The education sector in Ghana remains on edge as stakeholders await the response from GES. Teachers across the country hope for swift action to address their concerns and prevent disruptions to academic activities.

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