Ghana teacher unions declare nationwide strike over unpaid allowances

Teacher unions in Ghana have declared an indefinite nationwide strike following the government’s failure to settle outstanding promotion-related allowances and salary upgrades. The industrial action is being led by the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PTAG).

Key grievances include the expiration of a September 24 deadline for payments, the failure to negotiate a new Collective Agreement, and the non-implementation of the Deprived Area Allowance. Unions also cited the refusal of the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service to automatically place newly promoted teachers on their correct salary scales.

The Ministry of Education has expressed concern regarding the potential disruption to the academic calendar and has scheduled a meeting with union leadership for Monday, September 28. The Ministry noted that resolving the dispute requires coordination with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission and the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department.