Haruna Iddrisu Appeals to CETAG: Suspend Strike for Two Weeks as Government Addresses Long-Standing Demands

Ghana’s education sector faces ongoing disruptions from the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) strike. In a pivotal development, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has urged CETAG to temporarily halt its industrial action, promising government intervention within a tight two-week window. This article breaks down the CETAG strike 2025 events, government response, and broader implications for Ghana’s teacher unions and public education.

Introduction

The Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) declared a nationwide strike on November 24, 2025, halting academic activities across all 46 public Colleges of Education in the country. This action stems from the government’s failure to fully implement an arbitral award issued by the National Labour Commission (NLC) on May 2, 2023. Addressing the crisis head-on, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu met with CETAG executives on November 25, 2025, and publicly appealed for a two-week suspension of the strike.

Background on CETAG and Its Role in Ghanaian Education

CETAG represents lecturers and teachers in Ghana’s 46 Colleges of Education, institutions responsible for training basic and secondary school educators. These colleges produce over 80% of the nation’s qualified teachers annually, making CETAG disputes critical to the education pipeline. Past strikes, including those in 2018 and 2022, highlight recurring issues like unpaid allowances and poor working conditions.

Analysis

Haruna Iddrisu’s intervention marks a strategic government move amid mounting pressure from the CETAG strike 2025. By framing the request as a collaborative appeal—”the ball is in their court”—the Minister positions the government as committed yet dependent on union cooperation. This tactic draws from established labor negotiation principles, emphasizing dialogue over confrontation.

Government’s Negotiation Stance

During a post-meeting press briefing on November 25, Iddrisu acknowledged the unresolved issues dating back to 2022. He referenced the NLC’s favorable ruling for CETAG, which mandated specific remedies not yet enforced. The two-week timeline introduces urgency, potentially averting prolonged disruptions during the academic year.

Impact of the Strike on Stakeholders

The indefinite strike has idled thousands of students, delaying teacher training programs essential for Ghana’s Free Senior High School policy. Colleges like the Accra Technical University-affiliated institutions and regional campuses in Tamale and Kumasi report zero lectures, exacerbating teacher shortages in basic schools.

Summary

In summary, Haruna Iddrisu, Ghana’s Education Minister, urged CETAG to suspend its November 24, 2025, strike following a November 25 meeting. He pledged resolution of 2022-originated issues, tied to the unimplemented May 2023 NLC award, within two weeks. CETAG must now consult members on this appeal, balancing immediate relief against long-term enforcement.

Key Points

Practical Advice

For educators, students, and policymakers navigating the CETAG strike 2025, practical steps can mitigate impacts and foster resolution. This pedagogical guide draws from verified labor practices in Ghana.

For CETAG Members and Unions

Consult transparently with members via town halls or digital polls before deciding on the suspension. Document all negotiations to strengthen future NLC cases. Consider phased resumption, prioritizing exam preparations.

For Students and Colleges

Leverage online resources from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) for self-study. Colleges should activate contingency plans, such as recorded lectures, to minimize learning loss—proven effective in the 2022 strike.

For Government and Policymakers

Establish a dedicated task force within the two-week window, involving Fair Wages and Salaries Commission experts. Publicize progress via official channels to build trust.

Points of Caution

While the two-week pledge offers hope, history warrants caution in CETAG-government disputes.

Risks of Prolonged Strike

Extended action could lead to academic calendar shifts, affecting national teacher certification timelines. In 2022, a similar strike delayed graduations by months, contributing to classroom shortages.

Union Decision Pitfalls

Suspending without firm commitments risks repeated delays. CETAG should demand written timelines and penalties for non-compliance.

Economic and Social Ramifications

Strikes disrupt 10,000+ students yearly, straining Ghana’s education budget. Caution against politicizing the issue, as seen in past election-year escalations.

Comparison

Comparing the 2025 CETAG strike to predecessors reveals patterns in Ghana teachers strike dynamics.

Versus 2022 Strike

The 2022 action lasted five months, resolved via NLC intervention but with partial implementation—echoed in today’s unimplemented award. Iddrisu’s quick engagement contrasts 2022’s delays under prior administration.

Versus Other Teacher Unions (e.g., GNAT, NAGRAT)

Unlike GNAT’s 2023 salary-focused strike (resolved in weeks), CETAG’s focuses on conditions of service, prolonging talks. All share NLC reliance, with 80% resolution rate per NLC reports.

Timeline and Outcomes Table

Legal Implications

The CETAG strike invokes Ghana’s robust labor framework under the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651) and NLC mandates.

Binding Nature of NLC Awards

NLC arbitral awards, like the May 2, 2023, ruling favoring CETAG, are legally binding per Section 98 of the Labour Act. Non-compliance constitutes contempt, punishable by fines or imprisonment, as upheld in High Court precedents (e.g., NLC v. Government cases).

Strike Legality

CETAG’s indefinite strike complies with 14-day notice requirements under Labour Act Section 98, but prolonged action risks court injunctions, as in 2022 when NLC ordered resumption.

Potential Remedies

If unresolved, CETAG can seek judicial enforcement. Government faces fiscal obligations, potentially budgeted under 2025 education allocations.

Conclusion

Haruna Iddrisu’s two-week appeal to CETAG underscores the government’s intent to resolve the CETAG strike 2025 amid critical education needs. Success hinges on mutual trust, swift action, and adherence to NLC rulings. As Ghana advances its education reforms, timely resolutions prevent cascading effects on teacher supply and student outcomes. Stakeholders must prioritize dialogue for sustainable progress.

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