The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has called on the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, to ensure the full implementation of the 20% Deprived Area Allowance as announced by President John Dramani Mahama.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with 3news’ Labour Affairs correspondent, Daniel Opoku, on February 7, GNAT General Secretary, Thomas Musah Tanko, emphasized the need for the allowance to take effect next month, as promised by the president.
Long-Awaited Allowance Finally Gets Presidential Approval
The 20% Deprived Area Allowance has been part of teachers’ Conditions of Service for over 15 years, yet multiple negotiations between the government and pre-tertiary teacher unions failed to ensure its implementation.
On Thursday, February 6, President John Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to making the allowance a reality. GNAT has since commended the president for his dedication to improving teachers’ welfare.
GNAT Calls for Immediate Budgetary Allocation
Mr. Tanko urged the Minister of Education to ensure that the allowance is explicitly captured in the 2025 national budget, set to be presented next month.
“In next month’s budget, it must be captured. Once the President has spoken, it should be an item in the budget. This is a step in the right direction, and we are grateful to him. We now expect the Education Minister to ensure swift implementation,” he stated.
Teachers Demand Promotions on Single Spine Salary Structure
Beyond the allowance, Mr. Tanko also appealed to the government to address delays in upgrading qualified teachers on the Single Spine Salary Structure (SSSS).
“Aside from the allowance, we are also concerned about the movement of teachers on the Single Spine structure. Those due for promotions from Deputy Director to Director should have their upgrades processed immediately,” he added.
The successful implementation of the Deprived Area Allowance would mark a major victory for teachers in underserved communities and serve as a significant step toward improving education equity in Ghana.
