CETAG declares indefinite strike over unpaid allowances, gov’t inaction

The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has declared an indefinite nationwide strike, effective Monday, November 24, 2025, over the government’s failure to fully implement the National Labour Commission (NLC) arbitral award issued on May 2, 2023.

The industrial action affects all 46 Colleges of Education across the country.

According to CETAG, the decision—approved by the National Executive Committee (NEC) in consultation with the National Council at an emergency meeting on November 19, 2025—follows persistent government inaction on long-standing obligations.

The Association noted that members have been left with “no option” but to withdraw all services until their concerns are addressed.

Key grievances

CETAG accused the government of failing to honour several critical commitments, including:

• Non-payment of all-year-round work compensation for additional duties performed in 2022 for 39 colleges, with only partial payment made to Accra College of Education.
• Outstanding Book and Research Allowance arrears for the 2023/2024 and 2022/2023 academic years.
• Delayed payment of Book and Research Top-up arrears for the 2021/2022 academic year owed to Akrokerri College of Education.
• Unjustified downgrading of experienced teaching staff with master’s degrees—an action CETAG says violates agreed conditions of service and the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).

CETAG’s demands

In a statement signed by National President, Maxwell Bunu, and National Secretary, Fidelis Kamaayi, CETAG described the strike as a “legitimate and unavoidable response” to what it called government’s breach of binding agreements and disregard for labour directives.

The Association stated firmly that lecturers will not return to classrooms or supervise any academic activities until all outstanding issues are fully resolved.

Call for swift government action

While reiterating its commitment to delivering quality teacher education, CETAG warned that it will not allow its members to be “exploited or disrespected.”

The Association urged the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance, and the Government of Ghana to demonstrate urgency and good faith in addressing the unresolved matters.