President Mahama promises new pay review as teachers ask for better wages and safety

President John Dramani Mahama has promised to review the Single Spine Salary Structure again, following strong calls from teachers for better pay, pensions, and safer working conditions.

He made this promise while speaking at the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) conference in Accra on January 5. The President said salary and pension reforms will be a key part of his government’s labour plans.

Teachers at the conference complained about low salaries, poor pension benefits, and unsafe working environments. President Mahama said the new review will help fix unfairness in public sector pay and improve worker protection during service and after retirement.

He said the government is ready to set up a team to review the entire salary and pension system, including the three-tier pension scheme, so workers can retire with peace of mind.

GNAT President, Reverend Isaac Owusu, urged the government to review the Single Spine policy before the end of the year. He said teachers are suffering from low and stagnant wages despite their important role in national development. He warned that delays could lower morale among teachers.

President Mahama admitted that many workers are unhappy with the Single Spine system and described it as unfair. He said the government is willing to change it to ensure better pay and motivation for workers.

Teacher safety was also discussed. Reverend Owusu declared zero tolerance for attacks on teachers and warned that GNAT could close schools if such attacks continue.

President Mahama supported this stance, saying attacks on teachers are criminal and will be dealt with firmly.

The promises come as unions continue to demand better pay, stronger pensions, more funding for education, and safer schools across the country.