The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has declared an indefinite nationwide strike, effective Monday, November 24, 2025, over what it describes as persistent government failure to honour key financial and administrative obligations.
The decision, taken by CETAG’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and the National Council at an emergency meeting on November 19, affects all 46 Colleges of Education across the country. The strike halts teaching, supervision, and all related academic services.
Unimplemented Arbitral Award Fuels Tensions
At the heart of CETAG’s action is the government’s alleged failure to fully implement the National Labour Commission’s (NLC) arbitral award issued on May 2, 2023. According to the association, several directives and negotiated agreements have been ignored, despite repeated engagements.
The unresolved issues include:
-Non-payment of all-year-round work compensation for additional duties performed in 2022 by staff of 39 colleges. Only the Accra College of Education has received a partial payment.
-Outstanding Book and Research Allowance arrears for both the 2023/2024 and 2022/2023 academic years.
-Unpaid Book and Research Top-Up arrears for the 2021/2022 academic year owed specifically to staff of the Akrokerri College of Education.
-Unfair downgrading of experienced staff with master’s degrees, which the Association says violates the Conditions of Service and the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).
Government Inaction Leaves Members “No Choice”
In a statement signed by National President Maxwell Bunu and National Secretary Fidelis Kamaayi, CETAG said the industrial action is a direct response to government breaches of binding agreements and its disregard for labour directives.
“CETAG members will not return to lecture halls or resume supervision duties until every outstanding issue is fully resolved,” the statement declared.
The leadership emphasized that while members remain committed to delivering high-quality teacher education, they will no longer tolerate exploitation, delays, or disrespect.
Appeal for Swift Government Intervention
CETAG has called on the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Finance, and the Government of Ghana to act swiftly and in good faith to resolve the impasse and restore industrial harmony within the Colleges of Education.
The indefinite strike is expected to disrupt academic activities significantly, raising concerns about its potential impact on teacher training schedules and the broader education calendar.
By Nana Achiaa Aboagye
