CETAG declares indefinite strike over government failure to implement NLC arbitral award
The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana has declared an indefinite nationwide strike following the government’s failure to implement an arbitral award issued by the National Labour Commission. The decision affects colleges of education across the country and has sparked concerns about academic disruptions.
According to CETAG leadership, the government has not honoured its obligations under the arbitral ruling, which outlines improved conditions of service for members. The union stated that despite numerous meetings and assurances, implementation has not begun, leaving members dissatisfied and frustrated.
CETAG explained that the decision to declare a strike was not taken lightly. Leaders noted that they have engaged government representatives over several months, but progress has stalled. They emphasised that members have waited long enough and that the lack of action has created financial and professional strain.
The union stated that the arbitrated agreement is a lawful and binding directive that must be fully implemented. They argued that government institutions must demonstrate commitment to resolutions reached through formal processes, especially when the National Labour Commission has issued clear instructions.
The strike is expected to affect academic calendars, teaching schedules, and administrative activities within colleges of education nationwide. Students may face delays in coursework, examinations, and graduation timelines if the impasse continues.
CETAG has urged the government to show good faith by initiating immediate steps toward implementation. They indicated that discussions will not resume until concrete action is taken. According to them, dialogue without results has been repeated too many times.
Education analysts say the strike highlights long standing tension between teacher unions and the government over compensation, work conditions, and resource allocation. They argue that recurring labour disputes within colleges of education point to deeper structural issues that require comprehensive reforms.
Parents and student groups have also expressed concern. Many fear that prolonged disruptions could affect teacher training output and contribute to broader challenges within the education sector.
Government officials have yet to release a detailed response, but early indications suggest that internal consultations are ongoing. Some ministers have appealed to CETAG to reconsider the strike and return to negotiations, but the union insists that implementation must precede further dialogue.
CETAG concluded that the strike will continue until all aspects of the arbitral award are honored. The union called on stakeholders to recognize the importance of fair treatment for educators, noting that the quality of teacher training is directly linked to national development.
