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

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

The strike affects all 46 Colleges of Education in the country.

The decision was taken by CETAG’s National Executive Committee (NEC) in consultation with the National Council during an emergency meeting on 19th November 2025.

According to the association, continued government inaction has left it with no alternative but to withdraw all services across the country’s 46 Colleges of Education.

Key grievances cited by CETAG include the Non-Payment of all-year-round work compensation for additional duties performed in 2022 for 39 colleges, with only partial payment made to the Accra College of Education, the outstanding Book and Research Allowance arrears for the 2023/2024 and 2022/2023 academic years.

Additionally, the group expressed concerns about the outstanding Book and Research Top-up arrears for the 2021/2022 academic year, owed to Akrokerri College of Education, and the downgrading of some experienced teaching staff holding master’s degrees, undermining professional dignity and violating agreed conditions of service and the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).

In a statement, CETAG National President, Maxwell Bunu, and National Secretary, Fidelis Kamaayi, emphasised that the strike is a legitimate response to the government’s breach of agreements and disregard for legally binding labour directives.

They stressed that CETAG members will not return to lecture halls or supervise students until all grievances are fully addressed.

The Association reiterated its commitment to quality teacher education but warned that its members will not tolerate further exploitation or disrespect.

CETAG is calling on the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Finance, and the Government of Ghana to act with urgency and good faith to resolve the disputes.