Ghana’s Colleges of Education Teachers Association (CETAG) Announces Withdrawal of Services Over Unmet Demands
The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has taken a significant step in its ongoing dispute with the government over unmet demands. In response to the government’s failure to comply with the National Labour Commission’s Arbitral Award Orders, CETAG has decided to withdraw teaching and related services from all 46 public colleges of education in the country, effective from Tuesday, 1st August 2023.
The decision was reached during the National Delegates Conference held from Sunday, 30th to Monday, 31st July 2023. CETAG’s demands include the full payment of seven months’ arrears of allowances, compensation for additional duties performed in 2022, publication of the Staff Audit report, and the cancellation of the “killer” all-year-round academic calendar for the upcoming academic year.
CETAG’s President, Mr. Pringa Obeng-Himah, expressed disappointment in the government’s lack of compliance despite the NLC’s Arbitral Award Orders issued on 2nd May 2023. The association firmly believes that fulfilling these demands is crucial to ensuring fair treatment and proper compensation for its members.
The withdrawal of services has the potential to impact the smooth functioning of colleges of education across Ghana. With tutors withholding their teaching and related services, it is hoped that the government will take prompt action to address the issues raised by CETAG and prevent further disruptions in the education sector.
The resolution reached during the National Delegates Conference is binding on all local and zonal branches, making it clear that every Branch Association is expected to act promptly and adhere to the decision taken collectively. CETAG remains hopeful that the government will take these concerns seriously and work towards a resolution that benefits both teachers and the educational system at large.
In the meantime, all eyes are on the government as it faces mounting pressure to meet CETAG’s demands and avoid prolonged disruptions in Ghana’s education system. The fate of the upcoming academic year and the well-being of teachers hang in the balance, awaiting a positive response from the authorities.
