Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, Member of Parliament for Builsa South and Deputy Ranking Member on the Education Committee of Parliament, has highlighted significant concerns regarding the ongoing strike by the Colleges of Education Teachers Association (CETAG). The strike, initiated over unresolved issues dating back to the transition from diploma to degree awarding colleges, has severely impacted teaching and learning across colleges of education nationwide.
A major contention is the government’s delay in implementing an arbitration award granted to CETAG by the National Labour Commission (NLC). Dr. Apaak emphasized the urgency for the government to meet its obligations to the lecturers, warning that further delays could disrupt the academic calendar and affect students’ progress.
In response to the strike, CETAG leadership has vowed to continue their indefinite strike until the arbitration award and negotiated service conditions are fully implemented. They refute claims of receiving arrears for the Book and Research Allowance and deny allegations of conducting quizzes or tests during the strike period.
Speaking on behalf of CETAG, President Prince Obeng-Himang affirmed that the strike action is lawful and criticized misinformation circulating about their members and the strike’s legality. He reiterated CETAG’s commitment to legal action against any attempt to freeze members’ salaries illegally.
The association also clarified that under university policies, students cannot sit for exams if they miss lectures/classes for more than 21 days. They called on students, principals, and affiliate universities to respect this policy to avoid potential legal consequences.
In conclusion, Dr. Apaak and CETAG underscored the importance of resolving the dispute promptly through constructive dialogue and adherence to established legal processes.
Dr. Clement Abas Apaak
MP, Builsa South, and Deputy Ranking Member on the Education Committee of Parliament
