The ongoing teachers’ strike has raised concerns regarding its impact on the education of pupils.
Mr. Richard Ahiagbah, the Director of Communications of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), expressed disappointment in a post written on X. He noted that despite the National Labour Commission being aware of the impending strike, it failed to take the necessary action to avert it.
Mr. Ahiagbah believes that this lack of proactive measures has contributed to the current situation.
While Mr. Ahiagbah commended the Ministry of Education for work done over the years, he unambiguously stated that they also bear some responsibility for the situation. “The Ministry of Education, which has been lauded for its work under President Akufo-Addo, cannot be excused for mishandling this matter. Their failure to address the underlying issues has worsened the crisis,” he added.
While acknowledging the Teacher Unions’ right to strike, Mr. Ahiagbah emphasized that using pupils’ education as a bargaining tool is excessive and unfair. The well-being of students should be of top priority.
Mr. Ahiagbah recognized the government’s initiatives to enhance conditions for teachers, such as the introduction of the Professional Teacher Allowance as a demonstration of commitment to the sector.
Furthermore, Mr. Ahiagbah urged teachers to resume their duties while their concerns are being addressed. He emphasized that the government’s significant investment of GHC 114.5 billion in education should not be jeopardized by a preventable standstill.
As negotiations continue among the parties involved, the situation remains tense. Parents, students, and educators are hopeful for a prompt resolution that prioritizes teacher welfare and the right of pupils to quality education.
