Teachers’ Unions seek presidential intervention to end strike

The three largest pre-tertiary teacher unions in Ghana's Central Region have appealed to President John Mahama to personally mediate the ongoing conflict with government entities. Despite attempts at dialogue with relevant authorities, the unions allege that their grievances remain unaddressed, prompting them to seek presidential intervention.

In a joint statement, the unions implored the President to foster productive negotiations and facilitate a resolution in the best interests of educators, students, and the education system. The call comes as the nationwide strike enters its second week, causing disruptions in basic and secondary schools. The impasse stems from long-standing delays, unmet promises, and the perceived lack of decisive action by crucial bodies, notably the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, the Controller and Accountant-General's Department, and the Ghana Education Service.

The unions expressed frustration over the failure to conclude negotiations for a new collective agreement governing teachers' conditions of service, which was expected by June 2026 but remains unfinished. Even the existing agreement, which had expired, has not been finalized. In response to these delays, the unions have demanded that the Controller and Accountant-General's Department reconsider its requirement for teachers to submit hard copies of their promotion letters and input forms, arguing that the process should not impose an administrative burden on educators when the necessary records could be provided by the Ghana Education Service.

The unions requested a collaborative effort between the Controller and Accountant-General's Department and the Ghana Education Service to establish an efficient system where the Ghana Education Service would submit a comprehensive list of promoted teachers for payroll processing, thereby expediting the payment of salaries and benefits.

In the absence of a resolution to these outstanding issues, the unions reiterated their commitment to the ongoing strike. They urged all members in the Central Region to remain calm, united, and disciplined, adhering to the directives of the national leadership while maintaining their commitment to the cause. The unions emphasized that their intention is not to unnecessarily disrupt education but to secure meaningful progress on legitimate concerns affecting educators and the broader education sector.

They appealed to all stakeholders, including parents, guardians, students, and the public, for understanding and patience as they pursue a sustainable solution through constructive dialogue and peaceful negotiations.