Koforidua: The Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG) has issued a stern ultimatum to the government, demanding the implementation of the 20% deprived-area allowance for teachers by the end of August. This ultimatum comes with a warning of potential industrial action if the demand is not met within the specified timeframe.
According to Ghana Web, the announcement was made by PRETAG's National President, King Ali Awudu, during a National Executive Council meeting held in Koforidua on August 10, 2026. Awudu disclosed that the association had initially set an ultimatum for the end of July but decided to extend the deadline after interventions from the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission.
"We first gave the deadline of the end of July. The Ghana Education Service and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission intervened, and we decided to suspend the July ultimatum," Awudu stated. He emphasized that the extension was granted to provide the government with ample time to address the unresolved issues.
The 20% deprived-area allowance is intended as an incentive for teachers working in underserved communities, aiming to improve teacher retention and staffing in deprived schools. Beyond the allowance, PRETAG is also calling for the implementation of a promotion structure for qualified teachers, facilitating their advancement from Deputy Director to Director II and eventually to Director I.
Awudu made a direct appeal to President John Dramani Mahama, urging him to fulfill the government's election campaign commitments by implementing the promotion structure. He cautioned that failure to address these concerns by the end of August could lead to a series of industrial actions by PRETAG members.
The association's demands highlight ongoing issues related to teacher motivation, retention, and the challenges of attracting qualified educators to underserved areas. As the deadline approaches, the government's response remains crucial in averting potential disruptions within the education sector.