A group of newly recruited teachers under the Ghana Education Service has issued a firm ultimatum to government, demanding a clear timeline for the payment of their outstanding salary arrears or risk a nationwide demonstration.
In a press statement dated April 5, 2026, the concerned teachers expressed frustration over what they describe as prolonged delays in receiving their salaries, despite assurances from the Ministry of Education.
The teachers acknowledged a recent engagement with the Education Minister, during which government reaffirmed its commitment to settling the arrears. However, they criticised the absence of a concrete payment plan, saying the lack of clarity has deepened their uncertainty.
According to the group, the explanation that delays are due to lack or expiration of financial clearance is inconsistent with recent developments. They pointed to the government’s approval of financial clearance for new recruitments, arguing that it contradicts earlier justifications for the delay in settling their arrears.
The statement further referenced a Cabinet-approved GH¢1.1 billion allocation intended to clear salary arrears for both teachers and health workers following a demonstration in October. While health workers reportedly have a structured payment plan in place, the teachers say no such arrangement has been communicated to them.
“We ask why teachers are being treated differently under the same circumstances,” the statement said.
The group also raised concerns about administrative challenges, revealing that many newly posted teachers have been working for between 14 and 17 months without staff identification numbers. They described the situation as unfair and inhumane, noting that repeated assurances to resolve the issue have not been fulfilled.
As a result, the teachers have given government until April 13 to provide a detailed payment roadmap and address the issue of pending staff IDs. Failure to meet this deadline, they warned, will result in a planned demonstration on April 15.
They stressed that the intended protest will not disrupt academic activities, as it is scheduled during a vacation period for basic schools and single-track senior high schools. The group also maintained that their actions are within their constitutional rights.
The teachers called on key stakeholders, including the Ghana National Association of Teachers and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana, to intensify their support. While they acknowledged the efforts of both unions, they urged them to take a more active role in advocating for their cause.
However, the group expressed disappointment in the silence of the National Association of Graduate Teachers, describing its lack of response as concerning at a critical time.
They also appealed to civil society organisations, faith-based groups, and the general public to support their demands, highlighting the severe financial hardship many of them face after months without pay.
“Many of us are burdened with overwhelming debt after working for several months without salary. This action is not out of defiance, but desperation,” the statement noted.
Despite their grievances, the teachers reaffirmed their commitment to the profession and to improving education in Ghana, while insisting on fairness, transparency, and respect in the treatment of educators.
