Teachers in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality of the Western Region have declared an industrial action over what they describe as authorities’ failure to respond to demands following the alleged assault of three teachers by military personnel at Adiewoso M/A Basic School.
The action follows a two-week ultimatum earlier issued by Ghana National Association of Teachers after an April 30 incident in which three teachers and a civilian were allegedly assaulted during a military operation linked to illegal mining activities in the community.
According to the teacher unions, they are dissatisfied with what they describe as the lack of response from relevant state institutions regarding investigations into the incident, justice for the affected teachers, and compensation for the victims.
The unions have announced that beginning Tuesday, May 26, teachers across the municipality will wear red armbands and embark on a sit-down strike in protest against the alleged assault and the handling of the matter by authorities.
They further warned that a complete withdrawal of teaching and learning services will commence on June 1 if their concerns remain unresolved.
The incident at Adiewoso reportedly occurred during an anti-galamsey operation carried out by military personnel in the area.
GNAT described the alleged assault on the teachers as “barbaric and inhumane,” stating that the affected teachers identified themselves and presented their GNAT identity cards but were allegedly still subjected to beatings.
The association has since called on the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of the Interior, Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Police Service, and Ghana Education Service to investigate the matter and ensure that those responsible are sanctioned.
The teacher unions insist they will continue with their planned industrial actions until concrete measures are taken to address the matter and guarantee the safety and protection of teachers within the municipality.
Source: Wesleyannews.com
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