The National Council of the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has decided to continue its current strike action, despite appeals from various stakeholders to adjust its demands. This decision was made during a meeting held on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, following earlier discussions with stakeholders on Friday, January 3, 2025, at the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC).
At the GTEC meeting, CETAG was urged to reconsider certain aspects of its strike, especially those that do not directly relate to teaching. Stakeholders hoped that this would lead to some level of compromise to ease the impact of the strike on academic and administrative activities.
However, after a thorough review of the situation on January 7, CETAG's National Council unanimously decided to uphold its initial stance. The Council reaffirmed that the strike would continue in its original form until all outstanding payments owed to its members are fully settled.
In a statement, the Council emphasized its resolve:
"CETAG will continue the strike in the manner stated in our earlier declaration to all stakeholders until all monies are paid into our accounts."
To ensure clarity and unity among members, the National Council has instructed the National Executive Officer (NEO) to issue an official follow-up communication. This will be sent to all zones and local branches through their respective chairpersons. The purpose of the communication is to reiterate the main demands of the strike and encourage members to remain firm in their commitment to the cause.
The statement elaborates:
"For the avoidance of doubt, the Council has directed the NEO to write a follow-up letter to all zones and locals through their chairpersons. This letter will emphasize the demands of the strike and urge all members to stay resolute and abide by the tenets of the strike."
Meanwhile, academic and administrative activities in Colleges of Education, which are scheduled to begin for the 2024/2025 academic year on January 13, 2025, remain uncertain due to the ongoing strike. The continuity of the strike may significantly impact the reopening and subsequent academic schedules if the situation is not resolved promptly.