Three pre-tertiary teacher unions' branches in the Ashanti region have issued an ultimatum to government, demanding the implementation of agreed-upon allowances within a week.

Failure to do this, the unions threatened to lay down their tools.

The unions, comprising the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT), have been locked in a 15-year battle with the government over 17 allowances, which have now been reduced to four critical ones.

These allowances include the Deprived Area Allowance, Extra Assessment Allowance, Book, Data, Online Teaching Support Allowance, and the upward adjustment of the Continuous Personal Development Allowance.

During a press conference held in Kumasi, today, Monday, 6 May 2024, the Regional Secretary for GNAT, Mr Atakora, expressed the frustration of their members regarding the prolonged delay and government's apparent reluctance to implement the allowances, particularly amidst the current economic challenges.

"We have had enough of the nonchalance, complacency, and aloofness of the government," Mr. Atakora stated firmly, emphasising the urgency of addressing their concerns.

The unions have set a deadline of Monday, 13 May 2024, for the government to fulfill its promise and commitment to teachers by resolving the allowance issues. 

Failure to meet this deadline will result in the unions resorting to strike action to press for the implementation of the allowances.

Echoing Mr. Atakora's sentiments, the regional Chairman for NAGRAT, Mr. Francis Yaw Owusu, reiterated the unions' stance, signalling the seriousness of their intent should the government fail to act promptly.