Polytechnic teachers grudgingly return to class

Teachers at the various polytechnics across the country are expected back to the classrooms today after a strike over disagreements on their revised salaries under the new pay policy which lasted for three weeks.

Executives of the Polytechnic Teachers Association of Ghana, POTAG, asked its members to return to the classroom after what it said has been a fruitful discussion with the Fair Wages Commission (FWSC) and other stakeholders.

Though POTAG President Francis Atintonu earlier told Joy News the association has been assured of prompt payment of their salaries, teachers at the Accra Polytechnic who have grudgingly returned to the classrooms are demanding explanations from the national leadership over the latest decision.

“We want to discuss the issues involved first before we agree to go to the classroom,” one teacher maintained.

“We know that governments can promise you this and that but when it comes to the implementation they default, they've done it several times…”

Meanwhile some students who spoke to Joy News - though happy about their teachers return to the classroom - were concerned that the timing will affect their attachment schedule.

The Chairman of POTAG at the Wa polytechnic, Steven Yomuo told correspondent Rafik Salem that though they are not enthused about their return, the teachers simply want complete the academic calendar.

Students at the Kumasi polytechnic were the most affected by the strike following the closure of the school by authorities. Nhyira FM's Prince Appiah reported that some students are yet to return to campus.