The Ashanti Regional branch of the Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU) has thrown its weight behind the ongoing nationwide indefinite strike declared by the union.
The strike, which commenced earlier this week, is in protest of what TEWU describes as government’s continuous refusal to sign their long-awaited conditions of service agreement.
The agreement, according to the union, captures allowances and welfare packages crucial for the non-teaching staff in the country’s educational sector.
Addressing a press conference in Kumasi on Friday, September 19, 2025, the Industrial Relations Officer, Mr. Emmanuel Abeiku Aggrey, said members had been patient for far too long.
“Our conditions of service were negotiated in good faith with government, but several months down the line, nothing has been signed. We cannot continue to work under these unfair circumstances,” he stressed.
Mr. Aggrey highlighted major grievances including the Professional Development Allowance, unresolved promotional concerns, placement challenges, and allowances for junior staff such as motorcycle and car maintenance. “These are not new demands; they are long-standing issues that have been neglected. Government must act responsibly,” he added.
He further clarified that the industrial action involves all Ghana Education Service non-teaching staff, library authorities, museum and monument authorities, and junior staff nationwide.
However, the strike does not include personnel in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions as well as Colleges of Education.
The Ashanti Regional leadership urged members to remain steadfast and not allow intimidation to weaken their resolve. “We are appealing to our members to stay united. This is a national struggle, and victory will only come when we stand together,” Mr. Aggrey encouraged.
Some members present at the press briefing also expressed their frustration. A senior clerk at the Kumasi Technical Senior High School, Madam Comfort Owusu, remarked, “We do the bulk of administrative work, yet our welfare is always sidelined. It is time government recognizes our contributions.”
The strike has already disrupted administrative and support services in many basic and secondary schools across the Ashanti Region. Heads of institutions have admitted the absence of TEWU staff is affecting smooth operations, particularly in areas such as records keeping, sanitation, and maintenance.
Meanwhile, civil society organizations and parents have appealed to government to expedite dialogue with TEWU to avert further disruption of the academic calendar.
Observers warn that if the impasse drags on, it could have dire consequences for education delivery in the country.
The Ashanti Regional TEWU has assured its members that it will continue to take directives from the national executive committee and communicate any new developments promptly.
“Until we hear from our national leadership, the strike continues. No one should return to post,” Mr. Aggrey concluded.
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Solomon Nimoh
