Teachers' Strike Continues Despite Progress in Negotiations

Teachers’ Strike Continues Despite Progress in Negotiations

Despite progress in negotiations, the nationwide teachers’ strike in Ghana continues as the Coalition of Concerned Teachers Ghana seeks further engagement with their respective councils before calling off the strike.

Adokwei Ayikwei Awuley, the Communications Officer for the Coalition, indicated that while some headway has been made in discussions with the government, the strike will persist until they have consulted with their councils.

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The strike, initiated by three teacher unions on March 20, 2024, was prompted by grievances over the government’s alleged neglect of their service conditions. Since then, discussions between the unions and government representatives have been ongoing to address the issues and facilitate a return to the classrooms.

Following a crucial meeting with the National Labour Commission (NLC), the Minister of Education, and other officials on March 26, 2024, some of the unions’ demands were partially met. However, Awuley emphasized that a decision to end the strike would only be made after further consultations with the teacher councils.

In response to inquiries about ending the strike, Awuley explained that they were directed to do so but would follow the necessary procedures to consult with their councils before making any decisions. He outlined that negotiations on certain key issues, including conditions of service, remain unresolved, with plans to commence discussions on allowances in the coming days.

Despite progress in addressing issues such as the scheme of service, provision of laptops, and resolution of salary disputes, the conditions of service remain a major sticking point. The Coalition aims to negotiate six outstanding items with the government and will report progress to the commission within two weeks.

The ongoing strike underscores the importance of addressing teachers’ concerns and ensuring satisfactory working conditions in the education sector. Further negotiations and consultations will determine the future trajectory of the strike and the resolution of remaining issues.