Teachers to join Nurses on strike

Three major teacher unions in Ghana have issued a strong warning to the government, threatening to embark on a nationwide strike over the delayed payment of their book and research allowances.

The concerned unions — the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG), and the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) — say the government has failed to release the applicable foreign exchange rate, which is necessary for determining and disbursing the allowance.

In a joint press statement released on Monday, June 9, the unions expressed their deep frustration, describing the situation as an “undue delay” that is negatively affecting their academic responsibilities. They stated clearly that if the government fails to release the exchange rate and begin payments by June 13, 2025, they will consider that as a formal notice of strike across all campuses.

The unions argue that the continued delay is not just an administrative issue but one that causes real hardship for lecturers who rely on the allowance to support their research and professional development. The allowance, which is usually paid in foreign currency, is used to buy academic books, journals, and other vital learning materials. However, without an agreed exchange rate, the actual value of the money lecturers receive is uncertain—especially during periods when the cedi is unstable.

Following a joint meeting held on June 8, the unions resolved that the government must act quickly. They also made it clear that they will not tolerate any further extension of payments beyond September 2025.

“We stress that this allowance is a statutory entitlement under our Conditions of Service and an essential resource for advancing research, teaching, and knowledge sharing,”
the unions stated.

They further emphasized the urgency of the situation:

“We hereby notify all stakeholders that if the government fails to commence the payment process by 13 June 2025, this will be considered a strike notice by UTAG, TUTAG, and CETAG across all campuses.”

The unions urged the government to act fast, warning that any failure to resolve the issue could disrupt the academic calendar and negatively impact both students and the wider academic community.

The book and research allowance is a key benefit for lecturers in Ghana’s tertiary institutions. Delays in paying it — especially without clarity on the exchange rate — significantly reduce its value, undermining the very purpose for which it was introduced.