CETAG declares indefinite strike over unfulfilled arbitral award

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

The industrial action affects all 46 Colleges of Education nationwide.

CETAG’s National Executive Committee, in consultation with the National Council, approved the decision during an emergency meeting on November 19.

The association says prolonged government inaction has left it with no option but to withdraw all services across the colleges.

Among CETAG’s key grievances are the non-payment of all-year-round work compensation for additional duties performed in 2022 at 39 colleges, except for a partial payment made to the Accra College of Education along with outstanding Book and Research Allowance arrears for the 2023/2024 and 2022/2023 academic years.

The group also cited unpaid Book and Research top-up arrears for the 2021/2022 academic year owed to the Akrokerri College of Education, and the alleged downgrading of experienced teaching staff who hold master’s degrees, a move CETAG says undermines professional dignity and violates agreed conditions of service and the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651).

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

They stressed that members will not return to the classroom or supervise students until all outstanding issues are resolved.

While reaffirming its commitment to quality teacher education, the association warned it would not accept continued exploitation or disrespect.

CETAG is urging the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance, and the government to act swiftly and in good faith to address its concerns.