GNAT Flags Risk of Teacher Industrial Action Over Pending CPD Allowances.

GNAT Flags Risk of Teacher Industrial Action Over Pending CPD Allowances.

The General Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Thomas Tanko Musah, has issued a stern warning to the government, urging immediate intervention from the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, and the Ghana Education Service (GES) to prevent potential industrial unrest among teachers.

The warning follows growing discontent among teachers nationwide due to delays in the payment of November 2025 salaries and the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) allowance. 

Mr. Musah described the situation as "deeply troubling," stating that teachers feel betrayed by the unexpected delay, despite earlier assurances from the Ministry of Education and GES that the allowance would be paid without issues.

According to Mr. Musah, the validation process for the payment was completed, and indications were given that the allowances would be paid. However, the payment has not been made, placing union leaders in a difficult position, as they had confidently communicated to members that payment would be made in November. 

Mr. Musah expressed his concerns, stating, "Last year it was paid in September, and this year it was supposed to be paid this month. Everything has been done - validation has been done - and when the validation was completed, there was an indication that the allowances would be paid."

The CPD allowance, a negotiated benefit in teachers' collective agreement and conditions of service, supports teachers' professional development activities and was last paid in September 2024. 

Initially set at GH¢1,200 and later increased to GH¢2,400, the allowance is a vital component of teachers' remuneration package. Mr. Musah is urging the Minister of Education and GES to act swiftly to address the issue, emphasizing that teachers want clear communication on the reasons for the delay.

"Both the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service should respond to this difficult situation as soon as possible. The Minister gives policy direction, and the GES is the employer. Teachers want to hear from them on exactly what the issues are," Mr. Musah stressed.

The situation is being closely monitored, as failure to address the concerns promptly could lead to industrial action, potentially disrupting teaching and learning nationwide. 

Labour analysts warn that the government's inaction could have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the education sector but also the country as a whole.