The ongoing strike action by the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has left many wondering why the association is refusing to end its industrial action despite numerous promises and agreements. To understand the situation, it's essential to delve into the origins of the strike and the events that have unfolded since 2021.
The current strike action traces back to 2021 when CETAG's leadership initiated negotiations on their overall Conditions of Service. Despite several weeks of discussions, the government failed to provide satisfactory responses, leading members to feel compelled to cease their duties due to unfair treatment. The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) also delayed addressing CETAG's demands, ultimately leading to the strike declaration.
Since then, CETAG has called off the strike multiple times, only to resume it due to the government's failure to fulfill its promises. In January 2023, the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) invited CETAG leaders to a meeting, assuring them that FWSC would resume and swiftly conclude negotiations. However, FWSC continued to delay, prompting another strike by CETAG in December 2022.
The series of unfulfilled promises has led CETAG to distrust the government's commitments. The association is now insisting on concrete evidence rather than just a signed Memorandum of Agreement (MoA). This stance is understandable, given the government's history of broken promises.
The National Labour Commission (NLC) has attempted to resolve the dispute, bringing together CETAG and FWSC on multiple occasions. Despite issuing directives and setting deadlines, the employer has failed to comply with the NLC's instructions. This lack of compliance has further eroded trust between CETAG and the government.
The situation remains unresolved, with CETAG continuing to write to the NLC seeking proof of enforcement. The association's refusal to end its industrial action is a testament to its determination to fight for its rights. Until the government provides concrete evidence of its commitment to implementing the Arbitration Awards, CETAG will likely continue its strike action.
The ongoing strike has significant implications for Ghana's education sector. Students are suffering, and the academic calendar is being disrupted. The strike also affects the morale of teachers, who are already overworked and underpaid.
To resolve the situation, the government must take concrete steps to address CETAG's demands and provide evidence of its commitment to implementing the Arbitration Awards. This includes:
1. Implementing the Arbitration Awards in full
2. Providing a clear timeline for the implementation
3. Ensuring that all members of CETAG benefit from the awards
4. Addressing the staff audit for Colleges of Education
In conclusion, the CETAG strike is a complex issue, rooted in a history of unfulfilled promises and broken trust. To resolve the situation, the government must take concrete steps to address CETAG's demands and provide evidence of its commitment to implementing the Arbitration Awards. Until then, CETAG's refusal to end its industrial action is a necessary measure to protect the rights of its members. The government must prioritize the education sector and work towards finding a lasting solution to the dispute.
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