Education Ministry Welcomes Strike Suspension as Teachers Return to Class Monday
The Ministry of Education has welcomed the decision by three teacher unions to suspend their nationwide strike following negotiations with the government and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC). Public basic schools nationwide are expected to resume normal academic activities on Monday, October 12, 2026.
The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG) embarked on the industrial action on September 25, 2026, to protest the government’s failure to address concerns over their conditions of service.
The unions suspended the strike on Friday, October 9, after reaching an agreement with the FWSC on outstanding allowances and arrears. The decision followed engagements earlier that day with the Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment and the Council of State.
GNAT General Secretary, Thomas Musah, called on members to return to work, explaining that discussions with the FWSC on promotion allowances, deprived-area allowances and outstanding arrears had been concluded.
He said union leaders had directed teachers to return to their classrooms on Monday, while engagements on other unresolved grievances would continue.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its Press Secretary, Hashmin Mohammed, the Ministry described the suspension as a positive step towards resolving outstanding concerns through dialogue, mutual understanding and constructive engagement for the benefit of teachers and learners.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working with the unions, the FWSC and other relevant stakeholders to address outstanding issues and improve teachers’ welfare.
It stressed that ensuring stability and continuity in the delivery of quality education remained a priority as efforts continued to resolve the concerns raised by the unions.
The Ministry also expressed appreciation to teachers, parents, learners and other stakeholders for their patience and resilience throughout the industrial action.
It urged all parties to maintain a spirit of cooperation and good faith to build on the progress achieved through negotiations.
The statement further reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to promoting industrial harmony and creating an environment where teachers are valued, supported and empowered to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s education transformation agenda.
By Esther Padmore Amonoo
