The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has expressed frustration over the government's lack of seriousness in negotiations for a new Collective Agreement, which has contributed to the ongoing strike by teachers. According to GNAT Head of Salaries, Isaac Baah, the existing Collective Agreement expired in June 2026, but negotiations for its renewal have yet to make meaningful progress. The union submitted its proposals for the review of the agreement in August 2025.
Mr. Baah stated that despite submitting proposals in August 2025, subsequent meetings have failed to produce the desired results. He noted that the government's offers have been inadequate, making it difficult to discuss the matter further. As a result, GNAT is expected to meet with the government on Tuesday to continue discussions specifically on the Collective Agreement. The union will use this meeting to assess the situation and determine its next steps.
The delay in negotiations has also affected the payment of the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Allowance, which forms part of the items under negotiation. The allowance was expected to be paid in September every year, but the failure to conclude the new agreement has prevented the payment from being effected this year. This has added to the concerns of teacher unions, who are currently on an indefinite strike.
GNAT is among the teacher unions currently on strike over outstanding concerns, including promotion-related arrears, the new Collective Agreement, and the Deprived Area Allowance. The strike has disrupted academic activities, and there are concerns about the impact on students. The Education Ministry has assured that all outstanding issues will be addressed at a meeting with the unions.
The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has urged the government to show seriousness in addressing their concerns. The union has rejected fresh assurances from the government, demanding the implementation of the August 31 agreement. Until they see concrete action, the striking teachers have vowed to stay home.
Other teacher unions, including NAGRAT, have also expressed concerns about the government's handling of the situation. NAGRAT has demanded signed timelines before calling off its strike. The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission has appealed to GNAT to suspend its planned strike over conditions of service.
The Ministry of Education has urged data-driven talks to resolve the teacher impasse. The government has been urged to prioritize the concerns of teacher unions to prevent further disruptions to academic activities. The outcome of the meeting between GNAT and the government on Tuesday will be crucial in determining the next steps for the striking teachers.
Key points
- The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has accused the government of showing little seriousness in negotiations for a new Collective Agreement.
- The delay in negotiations has affected the payment of the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Allowance.
- Teacher unions, including GNAT and NAGRAT, are on an indefinite strike over outstanding concerns.
