Dr. Dominic Owusu, spokesperson for the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG), has revealed that the association has exhausted all avenues for negotiation with the government.
Despite engaging in over 23 meetings, CETAG has been met with a lack of genuine commitment to addressing their concerns. The government's inaction has left teacher educators feeling disrespected and undervalued.
Dr. Owusu emphasized that teacher education is the foundation upon which Ghana's future generations of skilled and informed citizens are built. "Teachers are the trainers of trainees, providing consultancy, knowledge, skills, and competencies in various areas."
He stressed that the government needs to recognize the vital role of teacher education and accord CETAG the respect they deserve.
CETAG's demands for equal Book and Research Allowance (BRA) benefits, as stipulated by the National Labor Commission's arbitral award, remain unmet. The government's failure to implement the award has led to a significant debt of twenty months' worth of BRA arrears owed to CETAG.
Dr. Owusu pointed out that the government's actions have aggravated the problems and reinforced CETAG's doubts about the disparate treatment of colleges compared to universities.
Dr. Owusu highlighted the commitment of CETAG members to enhancing their skills and qualifications, driven by a passion for education and self-advancement.
"The Colleges of Education have more PhDs emerging than any other tertiary public institution." He emphasized that CETAG is willing to go to great lengths to secure a lasting legacy for the next generation.
Dr. Owusu stressed that contemporary teachers in Ghana are aware of their entitlements and will no longer be treated with disdain. "The era where teachers are not respected and are looked down on is over."
He emphasized that teachers are passionate about their profession and eager to return to their classrooms, but will not back down until their demands are met.
As the strike continues indefinitely, it is imperative that the government takes immediate action to resolve it.
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