The leadership of pre-tertiary teachers in Ghana proceeded with a planned demonstration, despite assurances from the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service (GES) that their concerns would be resolved.
The teachers’ unions, including the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT-GH), met with the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, and officials from the GES to discuss their grievances.
During the meeting, the ministry assured the unions that their issues would be addressed, but this did not deter some members from taking to the streets to protest.
Reports had initially suggested that the demonstration would be called off following the assurances from the minister, but the unions felt that concrete action was necessary to press home their demands.
Addressing the media during the protest, GNAT General Secretary Mr. Peter Boateng expressed optimism that the demonstration would prompt a faster resolution to their concerns.
He emphasised that the unions are committed to ensuring the government addresses their demands, which include better working conditions and the timely payment of benefits.
On behalf of the Ministry of Education, Mr. Kwateng, the ministry’s spokesperson, received the petition from the protesters.
He assured them that the ministry would prioritise their grievances and work swiftly to resolve the issues at hand.
The teachers’ unions remain hopeful that the government will respond positively to their demands, but they have vowed to continue advocating for their rights until they see meaningful change.