The Ghanaian government has assured striking teachers that it will meet its payment commitments once outstanding issues in the payment process are resolved. Government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu stated that the President has been briefed on the strike and has instructed that every necessary action be taken to get teachers back into the classroom. The government's recognition of the importance of teachers was emphasized, as it cannot afford to have them remain out of the classroom for an extended period.
The strike follows a dispute over the payment of teachers' promotions, with teacher unions withdrawing their services over concerns about outstanding payments. Mr. Ofosu mentioned that engagements were ongoing to resolve the dispute and expressed confidence that the matter would be resolved in a matter of days. The government's value for the contributions of teachers was reiterated, with Mr. Ofosu describing them as highly valued and respected human resources.
According to Mr. Ofosu, the Finance Ministry and Controller and Accountant-General's Department had taken steps on their side, but a gap remained between the information from the two sides and what the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) had indicated. He stressed that the government was prepared to pay the affected teachers once the discrepancies were resolved. The need for clarity in the process was emphasized, with Mr. Ofosu stating that all differences needed to be ironed out.
Mr. Ofosu explained that the Accountant-General had received a list of teachers affected by payments, showing that the government was committed to doing what had to be done. He added that once clarity was brought to the process, the government would meet its commitment to pay the teachers. The government's eagerness to resolve the matter was evident, with Mr. Ofosu expressing confidence in a swift resolution.
On the possibility of President John Mahama personally intervening, Mr. Ofosu stated that the matter was currently within the responsibility of the relevant ministries and Controller. However, he noted that presidential intervention could be considered if the matter reached a difficult deadlock. The government's commitment to finding a resolution was reiterated, with Mr. Ofosu emphasizing the importance of getting teachers back to work.
The payment dispute has been ongoing, with teacher unions expressing concerns about outstanding payments. The government's assurance of payment has been welcomed, but the need for a swift resolution remains. The impact of the strike on the education sector has not been disclosed, but it is clear that a resolution is necessary to minimize disruptions.
The government has identified a payment discrepancy as a major obstacle to resolving the strike. Efforts are being made to address this discrepancy and ensure that teachers receive their promotions. Key points to note include:
Key points
- The Ghanaian government has pledged to pay striking teachers once payment discrepancies are resolved.
- Engagements are ongoing to resolve the dispute, with a resolution expected in a matter of days.
- The government values the contributions of teachers and recognizes the importance of getting them back to work.
