GES directs headteachers to keep schools open despite teachers’ strike

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has directed heads of public schools to keep the schools running despite the nationwide strike by three teacher unions.

On Wednesday, March 20, 2024, the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT) declared a strike over what they allege was the government’s negligence in addressing their conditions of service.

But the GES in a statement said it has through the regional and district directors to ensure the safety and well-being of students.

“Regional and District Directors have further been directed to ensure that heads keep schools opened and closely supervise all children who report to school pending further directives from Management of GES,” the statement read.

It further advised parents to remain calm and be assured that Management is closely monitoring the situation and will advise on the way forward accordingly.

Meanwhile, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has asked the teachers to call off the industrial action and return to the negotiation table for a conclusive engagement.

According to the Chief Executive Officer of the FWSC, Ing. Benjamin Arthur, the commission has been engaging them over a period concerning the requests that they placed before the employer for negotiations.

He revealed that the commission had recently secured funds from the Ministry of Finance to facilitate wage negotiations.

“We were expectant that Thursday by 1400 hours at least, we should be able to conclude the negotiation,” he stated.

Below is the full statement.