The Government of Ghana has taken an important step toward resolving long-standing financial issues affecting teacher educators in the Colleges of Education. A new document from the Ministry of Finance, dated 26th January 2026, confirms the release of funds to settle outstanding payments owed to members of the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG).
This development comes after months of concern from CETAG members over unpaid allowances and compensation for extra work done in previous academic years. The release of funds is in line with an arbitral award issued by the National Labour Commission (NLC) and is expected to bring some relief to affected lecturers.
Total Amount Released
According to the Ministry of Finance, a total sum of GH¢43,077,890.22 has been approved and authorized for payment. This amount will be used to settle three major outstanding issues involving CETAG members across various Colleges of Education in Ghana.
Breakdown of the Payments
The released funds cover the following items:
- All-Year Round Work Compensation
CETAG members were awarded compensation for additional duties they performed throughout the year. Although part of this amount had already been paid, an outstanding balance of GH¢1,818,626.22 remained. This balance is now included in the released funds. - Book and Research Allowance Top-Up (2023/2024 Academic Year)
A significant portion of the funds, amounting to GH¢41,222,024.00, is meant to pay book and research allowance top-ups for CETAG members for the 2023/2024 academic year. This allowance supports lecturers in carrying out research and improving teaching quality. - Akrokerri College of Education Research Allowance Top-Up
An additional GH¢37,240.00 has been approved to cover delayed research allowance payments at Akrokerri College of Education for the 2022/2023 academic year. The delay was caused by late submission of required data by the institution.
Budget and Accountability
The Ministry of Finance stated that the total amount released will be charged to the 2026 Compensation of Employees Vote under the Ministry of Education. The Chief Director of the Ministry of Education has also been reminded to ensure that all payments follow Ghana’s public financial management and procurement laws.
Why This Matters
This release of funds is a positive sign for CETAG members and the education sector as a whole. It shows that government is responding to legal decisions and is willing to clear outstanding obligations. Many stakeholders believe this step could help restore calm and improve working relations between teacher unions and government.
However, CETAG members and the general public will be watching closely to ensure that the funds are actually paid to beneficiaries without further delays.
Conclusion
The release of over GH¢43 million to settle CETAG’s outstanding payments marks a major milestone in addressing teacher welfare issues in Ghana’s Colleges of Education. While challenges remain, this move offers hope for improved trust, stability, and progress in the education sector.
