In a resolute move to demand justice and fair treatment, the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) issued a compelling communique today, announcing the withdrawal of teaching and related services in all 46 public colleges of education across the country. The decision, unanimously endorsed by key educational figures, comes as a response to the government's failure to comply with the National Labour Commission's (NLC) Arbitral Award Orders.
The communique, released on 31st July 2023, stated CETAG's unequivocal demands, which include the full payment of seven months' arrears of allowances owed to its members based on the approved conditions of service as per the NLC's Arbitral Award Order. Additionally, CETAG called for the payment of a one-month salary to each member as compensation for extra duties performed in the year 2022, as directed by the NLC.
Furthermore, the association urged the immediate publication of the report of the Staff Audit and the extension of public universities' rates of allowances to deserving CETAG members, in accordance with the NLC's Arbitral Award Order. The communique also demanded the prompt release of the leave roster by each college of education to enable tutors to take the mandated fifteen (15) working days leave for the year 2022, as ordered by the NLC.
However, one of the most contentious points raised by CETAG is its plea for the unconditional cancellation of the "killer" all-year-round academic calendar, set to take effect from the 2023/2024 academic year. This particular demand has sparked heated debates among stakeholders, underscoring the high degree of perplexity surrounding the issue.
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| Original Communique |
The decision to withdraw services was reached after numerous attempts by CETAG's leadership to engage the employer in meaningful dialogue and seek compliance with the NLC's orders. With their patience wearing thin, the National Delegates Conference of CETAG concluded that this drastic measure was the only viable option to protect the rights and welfare of its members.
The announcement has been met with mixed reactions within the educational community. While some see it as a necessary step to ensure fair treatment for teachers and preserve the quality of education, others worry about the potential disruptions to students' academic progress.
The communique was not only endorsed by all Principals of Public Colleges of Education but also received backing from prominent educational figures, including the President of PRINCOF, the Director-General (GTEC), and the President of the Teacher Trainees Association of Ghana (TTAG).
As CETAG embarks on this bold move to demand justice, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to their demands. All eyes are now on the developments set to unfold starting from 1st August 2023, as the fate of the country's educational landscape hangs in the balance.
Author: Prosper Wise Amegbe
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