In a significant development regarding the prolonged salary arrears faced by newly posted teachers, Ghana’s Minister of Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, has publicly assured affected educators that the government is actively taking steps to address the issue. This follows widespread protests by members of the 2022 cohort of Colleges of Education and university graduates who have yet to receive up to 13 and 9 months of salary, respectively.
Teachers Stage Protest Over Delayed Salaries
On Tuesday, September 30, frustrated graduate teachers took to the streets in a peaceful protest, demanding immediate payment of their long-overdue salaries. The protest began at Obra Spot near Kwame Nkrumah Circle and passed through key government institutions—including the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Finance—before concluding at the Jubilee House.
The teachers, who were officially posted into the Ghana Education Service (GES) over a year ago, have been working without pay for several months. Their grievances stem not only from the unpaid arrears but also from what they describe as a broader pattern of neglect by relevant government bodies.
Education Minister Promises Swift Action
Receiving the petition on behalf of the government, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu described the situation as an “unacceptable labour practice,” stating that no one should be expected to work for over a year without compensation.
“I’m here to receive your humble petition and to assure you that I will walk the talk on the issue of the unfair labour treatment that has been meted out to you. It is an unacceptable labour practice anywhere that you will work for 13 months without pay… Be assured that I’m on top of the matter,” said Mr. Iddrisu.
The Minister revealed that he had already initiated discussions with the Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, on September 23. According to him, the issue of teacher arrears was extensively discussed during their meeting, and both ministries are now working together on a joint cabinet memorandum. This document, once finalized and approved, is expected to fast-track the resolution and disbursement of outstanding salaries.
53,000 New Teacher Recruits Announced
In addition to tackling arrears, Mr. Iddrisu also announced that the government is preparing to recruit 53,000 new teachers into the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector. This recruitment drive aims to strengthen the education sector and reduce the burden on existing teachers.
Teachers Remain Hopeful But Cautious
While the Education Minister’s assurances have been welcomed by many, some teachers remain skeptical due to past delays and unmet promises. Lead convener of the protest, Simon Kofi Nartey, expressed the group’s frustration, stating that numerous attempts to engage the authorities prior to the protest had yielded no results.
“We’ve done everything the right way—letters, meetings, follow-ups—but were ignored. This demonstration was our last resort,” Nartey said.
What Happens Next?
The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, is expected to finalize and submit the cabinet memorandum for immediate approval. Once approved, funds will be disbursed to clear the backlog of salaries owed to newly posted teachers.
In the meantime, affected educators are urged to stay updated through official communication channels of the Ministry of Education and GES.
Conclusion
This latest assurance by Minister Haruna Iddrisu offers a glimmer of hope to thousands of struggling teachers across the country. However, as the situation continues to unfold, many will be watching closely to ensure that these promises are followed by concrete action—and that teachers receive what is rightfully owed to them without further delay.
Stay tuned for more updates on the arrears payment and recruitment processes.
Published By: Justice Donkoh | GESHub.org
