PRETAG Workers Set to Down Tools Over Unpaid Allowance
The Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG) is giving the government a two-week ultimatum to implement the 20% deprived-area allowance for teachers, or face a series of industrial actions. The ultimatum expires at the end of August.
PRETAG Gives Government Two-Week Ultimatum
The Association had earlier threatened industrial action at the end of July over the outstanding allowance but suspended the action following interventions by the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission. However, PRETAG says the delay in addressing its concerns cannot continue indefinitely.
National President King Ali Awudu said government must act by the end of August to avert industrial action. "We first gave the deadline of the end of July. The Ghana Education Service and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission intervened, and we decided to suspend the July ultimatum," he explained. He added that the Association was now giving government a further two weeks to resolve the matter.
What's at Stake for Ghana's Teachers
The 20% deprived-area allowance is intended to provide an incentive for teachers working in underserved communities and help address challenges associated with staffing schools in deprived areas. Beyond the allowance, PRETAG is also demanding the implementation of the promotion of qualified teachers from Deputy Director to Director II and subsequently to Director I. Mr Awudu urged President John Dramani Mahama to ensure the promotion structure is implemented, describing it as a commitment made during the 2024 election campaign.
Industrial Action Looms if Demands Are Not Met
PRETAG says failure to address the outstanding concerns within the latest deadline could trigger a series of industrial actions by its members. The Association is expected to monitor government's response in the coming weeks before deciding on its next course of action. The industrial action could have far-reaching consequences for the education sector, with potential disruptions to the academic calendar and a possible impact on the quality of education provided to students.
Teacher Motivation and Retention Remain Key Concerns
The Association's latest ultimatum comes amid broader concerns over teacher motivation, retention, and the need to attract qualified educators to underserved communities. The education sector in Ghana has long grappled with issues of teacher shortages, particularly in rural areas. The implementation of the deprived-area allowance and the promotion of qualified teachers could go a long way in addressing these concerns and improving the quality of education in Ghana.
Source: Joy Online
