Public basic schools resume academic activities across Ghana

Public basic schools across Ghana resumed normal academic activities on Monday, October 12, 2026, following the suspension of a nationwide strike by pre-tertiary teacher unions. The industrial action, which began on September 25, was called off after successful negotiations between the unions and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC). The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT) agreed to return to the classroom while discussions on unresolved grievances continue. The strike was triggered by outstanding allowances, promotion arrears, and concerns over expired collective bargaining agreements. As part of the agreement to end the strike, the FWSC confirmed that arrears related to promotions would be paid to affected teachers by October 16, 2026. Negotiating teams are expected to conclude talks on other financial entitlements, including rural community allowances and promotional salary placements, in the coming months. The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Emmanuel Kwadwo Agyekum, assured educators that the government would fulfill its commitments based on the agreed roadmap. He emphasized the importance of periodic meetings to prevent future industrial actions and thanked parents for their patience. Similarly, the Ministry of Education and the Council of State commended the unions for choosing dialogue over continued disruption, urging all parties to sustain constructive engagement to ensure the stability of the academic calendar. In regions such as Ashanti, academic life returned to normalcy as students were seen clearing school grounds at institutions like Danyame KG and St Anthony R/C Primary in Kumasi. Headteachers Osei Francis and Portia Agyapong encouraged parents to send their children back immediately to begin bridging the learning gap created by the three-week hiatus. Students expressed relief at returning to their studies, noting that the absence of teachers had significantly hampered their preparation for the academic year.