The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially responded to concerns raised by newly posted teachers who picketed its headquarters early Monday morning, June 23.
The teachers, who assumed duty in September 2024, are reportedly frustrated by delays in the issuance of Staff IDs and salary payments.
In a press release, GES expressed empathy and reiterated its commitment to addressing the matter urgently.
“We acknowledge and deeply empathise with the concerns of the newly posted teachers,” the statement read. “Their welfare is a top priority, and we are working diligently to resolve the issues at hand.”
Inherited Challenges and Ongoing Action
GES outlined several key points to clarify the current situation:
“The challenge stems from an expired financial clearance that was inherited by the current management,” the Service explained. “This clearance, which allowed for the processing of salaries, expired on December 31, 2024.”
Despite the setback, GES says it has been actively engaging the Ministry of Finance to secure new provisions.
“We are pleased to confirm that budgetary allocations have been made for these teachers in the 2025 National Budget. We remain optimistic that the necessary funds will be released soon.”
A Collaborative Approach
GES also emphasized the creation of a joint technical committee, which includes five representatives from the affected teachers.
“This committee is already working closely with GES management and has made significant progress in streamlining the resolution process.”
However, the agency urged for unity among the teacher groups.
“We appeal for coordinated and consistent representation,” GES noted. “The frequent formation of new groups with changing leadership has made it difficult to effectively track and address concerns. Unified representation will greatly improve communication and accelerate solutions.”
Reaffirming Commitment to Teacher Welfare
GES further highlighted its broader efforts toward improving teacher welfare.
“Since assuming office, the current leadership has prioritised teacher welfare and career progression. Over 50,000 teaching and non-teaching staff have received their due promotions and been placed on the appropriate salary scales.”
The Service also assured that longstanding issues, such as the promotion of teachers awaiting elevation to Deputy Director for over a decade, are being addressed.
“Work is ongoing to regularise these overdue promotions, and we expect resolutions in the near future.”
Call for Patience and Cooperation
“While we fully understand the frustrations of the affected teachers, we respectfully urge patience and continued cooperation,” the statement concluded. “GES remains committed to equity, transparency, and the overall welfare of all staff.”
The Service thanked the public for its understanding and reaffirmed its dedication to upholding the dignity and integrity of the teaching profession.
