TEWU threatens industrial action against Ghana’s government over unres

The Teachers and Educational Workers' Union (TEWU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) has issued a two-week ultimatum to government and education authorities to address persistent discrimination and poor working conditions affecting non-teaching staff across the education sector. The ultimatum, which took effect from August 14, warns of potential industrial action if the demands are not met by the end of the two-week period.

Key Demands Unmet

The Union cited eight key demands in its statement, including delayed remuneration, unfair labour practices, limited career progression, inadequate recognition, and poor working conditions. One of the immediate concerns is the non-payment of outstanding overtime allowances owed to watchmen and security personnel within the Ghana Education Service (GES). TEWU demands the immediate payment of all outstanding overtime allowances accrued over the years, highlighting the routine work of these staff members on weekends and public holidays.

The Union also demands the decoupling of ranks from positions within the GES to allow non-teaching staff to progress to their substantive ranks without being constrained by positional appointments. It argues that the move would address promotion bottlenecks and reduce stagnation among staff. Furthermore, TEWU is demanding the immediate introduction and payment of responsibility allowances for Unit Heads who perform additional supervisory and administrative duties.

Rejection of Claims and Warnings

TEWU has rejected claims that the allowances have already been consolidated into the basic salaries of the affected workers. The Union warned that any attempt by GES Management to alter the benefits in their Conditions of Service in a manner that worsens their working conditions will be resisted. The statement emphasizes the Union's commitment to protecting the rights of its members, stating, "Fairness must be mutual and must apply equally to all categories of workers within the education sector because we are partners in the field."

Staff Shortages and Health Concerns

The Union is also demanding the full implementation of the negotiated Conditions of Service for non-teaching staff of the GES. It specifically objected to any alteration of the agreed annual leave provisions that would worsen the conditions of its members. The Union highlighted the severe staff shortages that have left existing workers overstretched, resulting in stressful working conditions. It stated that some members have suffered serious health consequences and, in some cases, deaths, which it believes makes urgent recruitment necessary.

Government and Education Authorities

The two-week notice has been directed at key stakeholders including the Minister of Finance, Minister of Education, the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), university managements, and the Ghana Education Service. The Union said it had engaged the GES, GTEC, and some university managements over the concerns but believes its grievances have not received adequate attention. The statement leaves open the possibility of industrial action if the concerns are not addressed within the two-week period.

The TEWU's ultimatum serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by non-teaching staff in the education sector. As the deadline approaches, it remains to be seen whether the government and education authorities will take concrete steps to address the Union's demands. The outcome of this situation will have significant implications for the education sector and the thousands of non-teaching staff who rely on fair working conditions and adequate compensation.

Source: JOY