Shocking Taxation of Teachers’ Allowance: 3 Urgent Demands by Unions to Protect Teachers’ Rights

Ferdinand | EducationGhana |  November 24| Shocking Taxation of Teachers’ Allowance: 3 Urgent Demands by Unions to Protect Teachers’ Rights

The recent taxation of the Complimentary Digital Instruction Support Allowance  has sparked outrage among Ghanaian teachers, who feel betrayed by what they see as a breach of prior agreements. Prominent education blogger Ellis Ferdinand revealed that the November salary validations confirmed the GHC800 allowance was taxed despite assurances to the contrary.

This revelation has led to a strong backlash from teacher unions, including the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers Ghana (CCT Ghana). The unions have issued a stern warning to the government, highlighting three urgent demands to address the issue and protect the rights of educators.

1. Immediate Reversal of Taxation

The unions insist that the government honor its earlier agreement not to tax the Complimentary Digital Instruction Support Allowance. They emphasized that allowances are non-taxable under Ghanaian law and described this move as a violation of trust between the government and teachers.

2. Transparent Communication with Stakeholders

In their letter to the Ministry of Education, the unions stressed the need for clear communication regarding policies affecting teachers’ benefits. They argued that the taxation of the allowance was implemented without adequate consultation or explanation.

“Should the government not heed and go ahead with the deduction, the Ministry of Education may have itself to blame in the end,” the unions warned.

 

3. Assurance of Future Compliance

The unions demanded that the government provide concrete assurances to prevent similar breaches in the future. They believe such measures are essential to restoring trust and avoiding potential unrest within the education sector.

Teachers’ Growing Frustration

This incident adds to the growing dissatisfaction among teachers, who have consistently advocated for better conditions, fair treatment, and respect for prior agreements. The unions warned that failure to address their concerns could lead to uncontrollable actions by their members, further straining relations between the government and the teaching profession.

Conclusion

The taxation controversy has raised critical questions about policy implementation and the government’s commitment to honoring agreements with educators. As tensions rise, all eyes are on the Ministry of Education to see if they will heed the unions’ demands and take decisive action to address the issue.