A clear picture of the CETAG strike, from Day 1 in 2021 to the Current situation in 2024
The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) has been on a prolonged strike since December 2021, fighting for the implementation of the Conditions of Service (CoS) agreed upon in August 2021. Despite numerous negotiations, agreements, and arbitration awards, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) and the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) have failed to comply, leaving CETAG members frustrated and determined to continue their strike.
A Timeline of Broken Promises
The strike began in December 2021 after FWSC delayed negotiations, leading to a series of events that have unfolded over the past two years. In January 2022, CETAG called off the strike after assurances from the government, but FWSC continued to delay implementation. Another strike was declared in December 2022, which was called off in January 2023 after the National Labour Commission (NLC) intervened. However, the promises made by the government and FWSC remained unfulfilled, leading to further frustration among CETAG members.
Arbitration Awards Ignored
In May 2023, the NLC referred the matter to compulsory arbitration, which awarded CETAG members a revised effective date for the CoS implementation and additional compensation. However, FWSC and GTEC have failed to implement the arbitration awards, leading to the current strike. This lack of compliance has further eroded the trust between CETAG and the government, making a resolution more challenging.
Intimidation and Court Actions
Since June 2024, the employer, together with the NLC, has initiated several actions to suppress CETAG, including attempting to obtain an injunction against the strike. GTEC has also tried to set aside the arbitration awards, claiming that only PhD holders and those on PhD programs deserve the benefits. These actions have been perceived as intimidation tactics, aimed at breaking the resolve of CETAG members.
CETAG's Resolve
Despite the challenges, CETAG remains resolute in their fight for justice and fairness. They have withdrawn all services except teaching and are awaiting a signed Memorandum of Agreement from the government. CETAG cautions that any attempt to illegally freeze their salaries will be met with legal action. The union's determination is rooted in the belief that their demands are reasonable and that the government and FWSC have failed to meet their obligations.
The CETAG strike is a testament to the power of collective action and the determination of workers to fight for their rights. As the situation remains uncertain, one thing is clear: CETAG will not back down until their demands are met, and justice is served. The strike has highlighted the need for effective dialogue and compliance with agreements, and its resolution will have far-reaching implications for the education sector.
The Way Forward
The government and FWSC must take immediate action to implement the arbitration awards and address the concerns of CETAG members. The NLC must also enforce its own orders and protect the rights of workers. Only through dialogue and compliance can this strike be resolved, and the education sector can move forward. A signed Memorandum of Agreement, outlining the terms of the resolution, is essential to restoring trust and normalcy.
The Fate of the Strike
The strike's fate remains uncertain, with CETAG awaiting a signed Memorandum of Agreement from the government. As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: CETAG will continue to fight for their rights and fairness until justice is served. The union's resolve has been tested, and their determination has only grown stronger. A resolution is possible, but it requires a genuine commitment from all parties involved.
A rumor is circulating that CETAG will call off its strike on Monday, July 29th. However, until CETAG releases an official statement, this information should be considered untrue. Stay tuned with ghedupro for more updates.
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