TEWU Declares Indefinite Strike Over Stalled Conditions of Service
The Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU) today officially TEWU declares indefinite strike nationwide. This significant action began on Friday, September 19, 2025. It protests government delays in signing conditions of service for union members. A statement from General Secretary King James Azortibah confirmed the union’s decision. He explained that members had “exercised patience and restraint.” However, they exhausted all legal avenues, therefore they had no other option.
The strike directly affects non-teaching staff in public and technical universities. Furthermore, it impacts the Ghana Education Service (GES). Consequently, the action could disrupt academic work. This is especially problematic as basic and secondary schools have recently reopened. TEWU is demanding the immediate signing of conditions of service. In addition, the union wants the government to extend benefits to other institutions. These include the Ghana Library Authority and the Museums and Monuments Board.
The union also raised concerns about long-standing promotion grievances. Specifically, they cite issues within the GES. For example, some staff members passed interviews but have not been placed on new salary scales. Other employees received no official promotion letters. Still others received no communication after their interviews. The union directly blamed the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) for the stalemate. They insist that the commission must take accountability for the delays. Mr. Azortibah stated, “The government—particularly the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission—must conclude and sign all conditions of service without further delays or excuses.”
Furthermore, the union warned employers against intimidating staff. They describe such actions as unfair labour practices. Ghana’s Labour Act protects the right to strike. As a result, employers must not prevent workers from joining the protest. With the new academic term just beginning, the nationwide strike threatens to disrupt the education sector. Therefore, many worry about its impact on students. TEWU’s decision to strike demonstrates their commitment to their members’ rights. The government now faces a critical challenge to resolve this issue quickly. They must negotiate a new agreement to end the strike. Consequently, this action may force a faster resolution. The nationwide strike by TEWU could significantly impact schools across the country.
