GTEC Director-General Appeals to Teachers to End Strike, Return to Classrooms

The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) Director-General, Professor Ahmed Abdulai Jinapor, has urged the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) and various teacher unions to call off their strike action and return to the classroom pending the outcome of negotiations between the government and the unions.

According to Professor Jinapor, the government is committed to addressing the grievances of teachers and making sure their welfare is a top priority.

Speaking at the 16th Congregation of the Offinso College of Education of the Methodist Church Ghana at Offinso in the Ashanti Region, Professor Jinapor emphasized that teachers play a crucial role in national development and their concerns are being taken seriously by the government. “You can be in the classroom while you still make your case,” he said, urging CETAG members to return to class while negotiations are ongoing.

It was held on the theme: “Equipping the young teacher for the 21st Century classroom”. Which also presented  the Offinsomanhene, Nana Dwamena Akenten II, and the Methodist Bishop of Kumasi Rt. Rev. Stephen Kwaku Owusu, who is also Council Chairman of the College.

The GTEC Director-General also clarified that the current issue  between the teacher unions and the government is not solely about money, but rather about conditions of service.

“It’s not about money; it’s about conditions of service. If you are an assistant lecturer, it is a probational transitional stage. So, you will be there for a certain period and you will be asked to make sure that you redeem yourself,” he explained.

Professor Jinapor urged teachers to respect the law and appreciate the checks and balances within the governance architecture that ensure accountability and responsibility.

He reiterated GTEC’s commitment to supporting teacher educational delivery and promoting educational leadership development in Ghana.

“I can assure you that your grievances are being addressed. You play a very important and critical role in our national developmental aspirations and your welfare is government’s utmost priority,” he assured teachers.

The Principal of Offinso College of Education, Very Rev. Dr Joseph Nkyi Asamoah, also joined Professor Jinapor ‘s call for teachers to return to class, citing concerns about the impact on the academic calendar. “For the past two weeks, they have been doing their own private studies. And the semester is 16 weeks”, he said, in addition that if teachers failed to return to class on time, it would distract the academic calendar.

The Principal of Jackson Education Complex, Theodosia Jackson, took the opportunity to motivate graduates, urging them to accept postings to rural areas and dress decently. “Accept posting to rural areas if your services are needed there. Always dress decently,” she said.

As a teacher herself, having taught for 54 years, Mrs. Jackson emphasized that teaching was a rewarding profession when dedicated and devoted. “Teaching is the most honouring profession when given the needed dedication and devotion,” she said.

In conclusion, Professor Jinapor’s appeal for teachers to return to class while negotiations continue is a step in the right direction for CETAG. The government must remain committed to addressing teacher grievances and ensuring their welfare is prioritized. It is essential for both parties to work together to find a mutually beneficial solution that benefits all stakeholders involved.

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