The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has issued a stark ultimatum to the Ghana Education Service (GES): address long-standing delays in teacher promotions by April 30, 2025, or face a nationwide strike.
GNAT’s General Secretary, Thomas Tanko Musah, speaking to TV3 on April 23rd, expressed deep frustration with the lack of progress despite repeated engagements with the GES and the Public Services Commission.
He warned that both bodies would be held accountable for any disruptions to the education sector should the deadline pass without resolution.
The core of the dispute lies in the stalled promotions of over a thousand teachers, particularly those in lower ranks who haven’t seen advancement since 2019.
While some senior staff have seen upward mobility, Mr. Musah pointed out the disparity, stating, “Only two regions have seen some action. What happens to the rest?”
Beyond promotions, GNAT is also demanding action on unresolved issues like upgrading and the implementation of a clear scheme of service for teachers.
The union fears the mounting frustration among its members will inevitably impact academic activities.
“Our engagements with the GES and Public Services Commission have yielded nothing,” Mr. Musah lamented. “We’re ready to support the reset of the system, but these delays must end. Teachers are demoralised, and the situation is simply unacceptable.”
GNAT is now appealing to the Ministry of Education and other key stakeholders to intervene and prevent a potential shutdown of schools in May.
The union insists that immediate action is crucial to avert widespread disruption and restore morale within the teaching profession.
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