Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Warns CETAG Strike Hurts Academic Activities

The Colleges of Education Teachers Association (CETAG) began a strike on Monday, 24 November, citing the government’s failure to fully implement its 2023 Conditions of Service and delays in acting on the National Labour Commission’s arbitral award of 2 May 2024.

At an event in Accra on 19 December, where 20 vehicles were handed over to selected colleges, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu said the industrial action was negatively affecting academic activities nationwide.

“I understand that CETAG is still on strike. We need industrial peace and harmony on the campuses of learning,” he said.

The minister warned that prolonged strikes impede students’ career planning and development.

“When you prolong your strike action, it does affect career planning and the career path development of the young people,” Iddrisu added.

Government efforts to resolve the dispute

Iddrisu said discussions are ongoing with Finance Minister Ato Forson and that the government is mobilising GH₵ 41 million to meet teachers’ grievances.

“I discussed with Finance Minister Ato Forson, and even this morning I woke up to the same matter. We are mobilising the 41 million to pay, so it is not as if we are not committed to paying,” he explained.

He noted recent progress in paying teachers’ allowances, crediting President Mahama’s administration.

“Last month, when teachers didn’t get some allowances, they should celebrate President Mahama. We’ve paid the allowances, and any of you who went to take your salary this month, those two outstanding allowances that were not paid by the controller have been settled,” he said.

The 20 vehicles, part of a planned batch of 46, are intended to improve mobility and operational efficiency at the colleges. Professor Mahama Duwiejua, chairman of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, praised the initiative.

“The vehicles will significantly contribute to quality education by enabling principals and students to engage with their communities,” he said.

Iddrisu urged recipients to maintain the vehicles properly, noting some are equipped with twin‑turbo engines requiring special care.

“I want to make one appeal: as you take these vehicles, please, take good care of them… Take notice of that and maintain them well,” he concluded.

The strike remains in effect, and the ministry said discussions with the teachers’ union continue.