Graduate teachers strike in Accra

The Greater Accra regional branch of the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) on Thursday began a one- week strike for higher pay and better working conditions.

A visit by the Ghana News Agency to some Senior Secondary Schools (SSS) within the metropolis revealed that though most of the teachers reported for school, they have refused to teach. Some, however, were assisting with extra curriculum activities outside the classroom.

At one of four schools GNA visited, teachers were also conducting classes. Teachers at Kinbu SSS said they did not want to deny students instructions because they will be taking examinations soon. The teachers' demands include higher entry points for a graduate teacher, different rankings from non- graduate teachers, and representation of NAGRAT on committees having to do with education.

Mr Kwesi Asante, NAGRAT representative at Accra High School, said graduate teachers have no wish to disrupt the academic calendar but," we want to be taken

seriously on our demands." He said The Ministry and the Ghana Education Service (GES), are delaying action on the whole issue: "We hope they would come out early since the final examinations are just about starting. This issue can seriously disrupt learning if the authorities do not act fast. We will meet after October 25 and know what steps to take next."

Professor Christopher Ameyaw -Akumfi, Director-General of GES appealed to the striking teachers to go back to the classroom since their action is seriously affecting the students who are not to be blamed. He said it is only the government and not the GES, which can meet most of their demands.

"The representation of Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) on governing councils and bodies was created by acts of parliaments and not by GES, so please address such issues to the proper quarters.

" We are more interested in the conditions of service of teachers but some of the issues put forward are quite beyond us." The Director -General said the doors of the GES are still open for discussion and called on the executive of NAGRAT to come forward for a dialogue on the issues.