The National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) has called for immediate reforms in Ghana’s education sector, warning that economic stability is meaningless if teachers continue to face poor conditions and delayed employment.
In a May Day message marking International Workers’ Day 2026, signed by President Anaba Jacob and General Secretary Ayuraboya Michael, the association praised teachers for sustaining the system despite overcrowded classrooms, funding delays, and unpaid arrears.
NAGRAT raised alarm over a growing recruitment backlog, noting that about 22,000 trained teachers from the 2023 Colleges of Education batch have not received financial clearance, while roughly 2,800 from the 2022 batch remain unposted.
The group is demanding immediate clearance and postings, alongside a “one-out, one-in” hiring policy to replace over 10,000 teachers who exit the system annually. It also urged the National Teaching Council to fast-track licensing processes.
On funding, NAGRAT warned that delays in grants are undermining the Free Senior High School policy, with some school heads reportedly using personal funds to run institutions. It called for the urgent release of all outstanding payments and a review of the policy’s sustainability.
The association further pushed for better salaries, pensions, housing, healthcare, and improved safety for teachers.
While acknowledging macroeconomic gains, NAGRAT insisted these have not improved teachers’ living conditions. It pledged continued engagement with authorities but signalled readiness to escalate action if concerns remain unresolved.
