On October 1, 2026, President John Mahama of Ghana directed the government to take all necessary actions to end the ongoing teachers' strike and get pre-tertiary teachers back into the classroom. The strike, initiated by the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers' Unions, has caused significant disruptions in the education sector.
Government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu stated that President Mahama has been briefed on the situation and its impact on the education system. According to Ofosu, the President has instructed that every necessary action be taken to ensure teachers return to the classroom. Ofosu expressed confidence that the dispute will be resolved within days through ongoing engagements between the government and the teachers' unions.
The main issue currently is a gap in information between the Accountant-General's Department, the Finance Ministry, and the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS). Ofosu mentioned that both the Finance Ministry and the Accountant-General have clarified that they have done their part, but there seems to be a discrepancy with the GSS. Closing this gap is crucial to resolving the strike.
The government has reiterated its commitment to paying the affected teachers. According to Ofosu, the Accountant-General has received a list of teachers and is processing payments. However, there is a need for clarity in the process to iron out the differences and ensure a smooth payment process.
If efforts by the relevant ministries and the Controller-General's Department fail to resolve the issue, presidential intervention may become necessary. Ofosu emphasized that the education ministry, finance ministry, and Controller-General's Department are currently working to address the issue and that efforts are ongoing to achieve a resolution.
The strike has had a significant impact on pre-tertiary education in Ghana, with over 2,000 teachers in Dormaa complying with the strike. The Ghana Education Service (GES) has warned schools and teachers against illegal fees and has appealed for an end to the strike. The situation remains a priority for the government, with a Minority motion also seeking the recall of Parliament over concerns about Ghana becoming a drug transit hub.
The government's efforts to resolve the strike come amid other pressing issues, including a recent shocking loss by the Black Stars and growing concerns about drug trafficking in Ghana. President Mahama has also ordered security agencies to make Ghana's ports safe against drug trafficking, highlighting the multifaceted challenges currently facing the government.
Key points
- President Mahama has instructed the government to take immediate action to end the teachers' strike.
- The main issue causing the strike is a gap in information between the Accountant-General's Department, the Finance Ministry, and the Ghana Statistical Service.
- The government has reiterated its commitment to paying the affected teachers and is working to resolve the dispute within days.
