Newly recruited teachers under the (GES) have issued a strong warning to government, demanding urgent action on their long-standing unpaid salary arrears.
In a press statement released to the public, the teachers expressed deep frustration over delays in settling their arrears despite several engagements with authorities. According to them, although a recent meeting with the Minister for Education offered assurances of government’s commitment to pay, no clear timeline or structured payment plan has been communicated.
Contradictions Raise Concerns
The teachers noted that repeated explanations from the Education Ministry—citing lack or expiration of financial clearance—appear inconsistent. They argue that the recent announcement of new financial clearance for fresh recruitment undermines earlier justifications for the delay in paying their arrears.
This, they say, raises serious concerns about fairness, prioritization, and transparency in government decision-making.
Disparity in Treatment
The aggrieved teachers also referenced a Cabinet-approved amount of GH¢1.1 billion intended to settle salary arrears for both teachers and nurses following their demonstration in October. While health sector workers have reportedly received a clear payment roadmap, the same cannot be said for teachers.
They questioned why teachers continue to face uncertainty while another group under the same approval has benefited from a structured plan.
Ultimatum Issued
As a result, the teachers have given government a deadline of 13th April to provide a clear and detailed payment schedule. Failure to meet this demand, they say, will leave them with no option but to embark on a nationwide demonstration on 15th April.
They emphasized that the planned protest will take place during the vacation period for basic schools and single-track senior high schools, ensuring that it does not disrupt academic activities.
Call for Union Support
The teachers acknowledged the efforts of the (GNAT) and the (PRETAG), but called for stronger and more active support at this critical time.
However, they expressed disappointment in the silence of the (NAGRAT), describing the lack of response as troubling given the challenges facing its members.
Mounting Hardships
Many of the affected teachers revealed they have worked for periods ranging from 6 to 14 months without pay, with some receiving only a single month’s salary without arrears. This, they say, has pushed them into severe financial hardship and debt.
“Our livelihoods have been severely affected, and the situation continues to worsen with each passing day,” the statement noted.
A Cry for Justice
The teachers stressed that their intended demonstration is not an act of defiance, but one of desperation after exhausting all available avenues for redress.
They reaffirmed their commitment to education and national development but insisted on the need for fairness, transparency, and respect.
“We ask once again: must teachers suffer in silence before they are heard?” the statement concluded.
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