TEWU suspends strike after progress in talks with FWSC

The Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union (TEWU) of TUC (Ghana) has suspended its nationwide indefinite strike after what it described as “constructive engagements” with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) and employer institutions.

The strike, which commenced on September 19, 2025, involved non-teaching staff from the Ghana Education Service (GES), public and technical universities, the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board, and the Ghana Library Authority. It was aimed at pressing government to finalize and sign improved conditions of service for its members.

In a statement signed by TEWU General Secretary, Mark James Azortibah, the union confirmed that a meeting held on September 29 produced a roadmap for resolving outstanding issues.

“As a result of this positive development, TEWU has decided to suspend the indefinite strike action with effect from today, October 1, 2025, to allow for further discussions and implementation of the agreed terms,” the statement read.

The parties are expected to reconvene for the next round of negotiations on October 7, 2025.

TEWU has directed its members to resume work on Thursday, October 2, while those outside their stations are to return no later than Monday, October 6. The union, however, stressed that the action is a suspension—not a call-off.

“We hope the FWSC and employer institutions will honour their side of the agreement, so that TEWU is not forced to take further action,” the leadership cautioned.

The union also issued a strong warning to employers not to retaliate against members who participated in the strike.

“No TEWU member or non-teaching staff should be victimised for exercising their right to strike. The leadership will defend any member facing unfair labour practices on this matter,” the statement emphasized.

The September 2025 strike was triggered by longstanding grievances among non-teaching staff, who accused government of sidelining their welfare despite years of negotiations. Their demands included:

Immediate signing of a conditions of service agreement

Inclusion in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) allowances

Payment of overdue overtime, holiday, and promotional allowances

Fair and timely promotions within the GES

The action gained traction across several regions, with branches in the Upper East and Upper West joining in solidarity.

The Ministry of Labour, Employment and Jobs has said government is working toward a comprehensive solution for TEWU and other labour unions with outstanding concerns.

For now, the suspension of the strike opens a window for dialogue, but TEWU has made it clear it is ready to resume industrial action if talks collapse.