Mr. Awoonor Yevu Godwin, the Eastern Regional Chairman for the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), has urged the government to urgently address pressing concerns surrounding the conditions of service for teachers.
During an interview with the media , Mr. Yevu Godwin emphasized that while government has improved condition of service in other public sector occupations, teachers are have been neglected ,but assured,they are resolute to fight for their right.
Speaking on behalf of NAGRAT, he called on the government to enter into negotiations with their leadership, underscoring the critical importance of reaching a collective agreement.
Pointing to the previous year’s efforts, Mr. Yevu Godwin highlighted that NAGRAT and the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) had conducted simultaneous press conferences, notifying the government about the expiration of the collective agreement and the urgent need for negotiations. Despite setting a deadline, the government has yet to respond.
Looking ahead to 2024, Mr. Yevu Godwin stressed that teachers are determined not to be taken for granted by the government.
Rejecting the notion that teachers’ rewards are solely in heaven, he asserted that, like professionals in other sectors, they deserve tangible rewards on earth.
The Eastern Regional NAGRAT Chairman called for a crucial meeting between the government and the leadership of all Teacher Unions, including the Trade Union Congress, to finalize and sign the collective agreement.
He clarified that the initiative to improve conditions of service began in 2023, adding that their actions are not politically motivated by the upcoming election year.
Instead, they seek enhanced conditions of service for teachers.
Issuing a warning, Mr. Yevu Godwin stated that if the government does not promptly address their concerns, teachers may take further actions, including symbolic gestures such as wearing red bands, to emphasize their grievances.
He earnestly urged the government to listen to their pleas, emphasizing the importance of averting escalation and ensuring the well-being of teachers.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
