The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has sounded the alarm, announcing its intention to embark on an indefinite strike across all 46 colleges of education in Ghana. This drastic measure is a last resort, driven by the union's determination to protect its members' economic rights as enshrined in the 1992 Constitution of Ghana and the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).
CETAG's leadership has reached a breaking point after years of unresolved issues with the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission. The union's patience has worn thin, and they are now taking a stand against the blatant disregard for their rights.
Several factors have contributed to CETAG's decision to re-activate industrial action. The Ministry's failure to comply with the National Labour Commission's (NLC) Compulsory Arbitration Award issued on May 2, 2023, is a clear breach of Section 167 (2&3) and Section 64 (4) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651). Additionally, CETAG members have been denied benefits owed to them based on the Compulsory Arbitration Award, violating the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
Furthermore, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission and the Ministry of Education have refused to pay research allowance arrears due to CETAG members. The Conference of Principals of Colleges of Education and the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission have also unilaterally varied allowances for office-holding positions, undermining the collective bargaining process.
CETAG urges the Ministry to uphold the Constitution of Ghana and the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651) by addressing all outstanding Compulsory Arbitration Awards and related concerns immediately. The union will no longer tolerate violations of their rights and is prepared to take a firm stance to protect its members' economic well-being.
The impending strike has significant implications for the education sector in Ghana. As CETAG takes a stand for their rights, they also emphasize their commitment to their duties and the education of their students. The union's resolve is clear: they will not back down until their economic rights are safeguarded.
CETAG's decision to re-activate industrial action has sent a strong message to the government and relevant authorities. The union's unity and determination will be crucial in the face of adversity. As the strike looms, CETAG members, students, and the broader education community must come together to support the fight for economic justice.
The clock is ticking, and the Ministry must act swiftly to resolve the outstanding issues. CETAG's strike is not just a fight for their rights but also for the future of education in Ghana. Will the government heed the union's call, or will the strike become a reality? Only time will tell.
In conclusion, the situation is critical, and the consequences of inaction will be far-reaching. The government must take immediate action to address CETAG's concerns and prevent a potentially devastating strike. The education sector in Ghana hangs in the balance, and the fate of thousands of students and educators remains uncertain.
