Tension is rising across Ghana’s education sector after the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD) announced that the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) allowance will not be paid this month, sparking anger among more than 300,000 teachers nationwide.

The delay has triggered strong reactions from teacher unions, who are calling on the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, and the Ghana Education Service (GES) to intervene swiftly to prevent potential industrial action.

CAGD Cites Technical Challenges, Reschedules Payment to December 18

According to the CAGD, the allowance, which was scheduled for payment in November—has been postponed due to a technical challenge, with a new payment date set for December 18, 2025.

The announcement has been met with widespread frustration, as teachers say all preparatory processes, including validation, had already been completed.

GNAT: “Teachers Feel Betrayed”

Speaking exclusively to TV3’s Labour Affairs correspondent, Daniel Opoku, General Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Thomas Tanko Musah, described the situation as deeply troubling.

“More than 300,000 teachers feel betrayed by this sudden change,” Musah stated.
“Everything was done — validation was completed — and there was every indication the allowances would be paid this month.”

He added that the abrupt change has placed union leaders under immense pressure, as teachers feel misled by earlier assurances.

“We had already communicated to members that the monies would be paid in November. Now the implication is that we have lied to them — and since yesterday till now, it has not been easy.”

Allowance Enshrined in Conditions of Service

The CPD allowance, originally pegged at ₵1,200 and later increased to ₵2,400, is a negotiated benefit enshrined in teachers’ collective agreement and conditions of service.

Government last paid the allowance in September 2024, and both the Ministry of Education and the GES had earlier assured teachers of timely payment this year.

Union Calls for Immediate Government Response

Musah appealed urgently to the Minister of Education and the GES to address the issue publicly and restore calm.

“Both the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service should respond to this difficult situation as soon as possible. Teachers want to hear from them on exactly what the issues are.”

He also noted the anger among teachers, symbolized by his own wearing of red, a traditional color of protest.

“Things are really difficult. We are calming nerves down, but even though Controller has issued some kind of statement, all is still not well.”

Possible Labour Unrest if Issue Is Not Resolved

Teacher unions have warned that failure to address the matter swiftly may spark significant unrest within the education sector, potentially affecting teaching and learning nationwide.

Musah ended with a direct plea:

“Honourable Minister, this situation needs your urgent attention to avert any challenge on the labour front.”