The President of National Association of Graduate Teachers [NAGRAT], Mr Christian Addai-Poku has maintained that the Mahama-led government is being ‘heartless’ when it comes to handling teachers matters.
He made this accusation after Labour Minister Haruna Iddrisu served notice government will not be stampeded by labour into taking decisions that will adversely affect the public purse.
NAGRAT had earlier threatened to go on strike over unpaid arrears – but the minister noted that although government is ready to dialogue with aggrieved teachers – “they will not succumb to pressure from them.”
NAGRAT is just as angry with the delays in the arrears as they are with the Minister of Education, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang, whom they accuse of disappointing teachers.
The President of the association, Christian Addae-Poku on NEAT FM morning show 'Ghana Montie' noted that the situation was so frustrating and disquieting that it had left teachers with no option but to issue an ultimatum.
“Whiles we are in the villages teaching no one cares about us. What we need is the payment of all the outstanding arrears by February 29, 2016 or we will lay down our tools until payments are made,” he said.
“It’s really unfortunate for a minister to say NAGRAT is stampeding government. I am disappointed in the minister. Government is being heartless but our position is clear. We will embark on our strike if they don’t pay us,” he added.
Christian Addae-Poku however said the association is likely to ignore any negotiations with government after their ‘heartless’ talks.
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