The Teachers and Education Workers Union (TEWU) has refused a directive from Ghana’s National Labour Commission (NLC) to suspend its nationwide strike, deepening tensions between the union and government officials over unresolved labor negotiations.
TEWU, which represents non-teaching staff across the country’s public educational institutions, launched an indefinite strike on Friday, Sept. 19, citing what it called “prolonged and unjustified” delays by the government in finalizing a new conditions of service agreement.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, TEWU’s National Chairperson, Salamatu Mahamah Braimah, reaffirmed the union’s position, stating that its members would not resume work until a formal agreement is signed.
“Until we conclude and sign the conditions of service, we will not return to our posts,” Ms. Braimah said. “The NLC is fully aware that due process has been followed. This action is lawful, and we have provided them with a comprehensive timeline of engagements.”
The union has also accused the government of systematically sidelining the welfare of non-teaching personnel within the education sector—an issue TEWU says has lingered for too long without resolution.
While the NLC has called on the union to reconsider its stance in order to prevent further disruption to public education, TEWU leaders remain unmoved. The standoff threatens to delay key academic activities and raises questions about the government's ability to manage sector-wide labor relations.
Government representatives have yet to issue a formal response to the union’s latest comments.
