We’ve been patient for long, release our funds – TTAG demands payment of allowances

The Teacher Trainees’ Association of Ghana (TTAG) has expressed their frustration over the prolonged non-payment of their five-month allowances by the government, stating that they have shown restraint for far too long.

Despite the government’s announcement of GH¢241 million being allocated for the payment of these allowances, teacher trainees across the 46 Colleges of Education are yet to receive their funds.

According to TTAG, the Ministry of Finance has not released the funds to the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) for disbursement, even after five weeks since the announcement was made.

In a statement issued by the President of TTAG, the association emphasizes that the outstanding allowances are negatively impacting the trainees’ livelihoods.

“The delay is causing significant hardship for teacher trainees, particularly in terms of providing for their basic needs and purchasing teaching and learning materials. The teacher trainee allowance is crucial for their well-being and helps alleviate the financial burden of tuition,” the statement highlights.

Since the start of the academic year in January, the teacher trainees have not received the owed funds, leading to distress among many of them.

The Association warns that their patience may run out if the funds are not immediately released for disbursement.

“While we have shown patience regarding this issue since the beginning of the academic year in January 2023, we cannot guarantee our continued restraint if the funds are not promptly released,” states a section of the statement.

The Teacher Trainees’ Association of Ghana (TTAG) is calling upon the relevant authorities to promptly address their concerns and fulfill their needs to maintain a peaceful learning environment.

“TTAG is fully committed to collaborating with PRINCOF, GTEC, and the government to promote a harmonious academic atmosphere for teaching and learning in the colleges of education. We urge the authorities to urgently resolve this issue and ensure the allowances are disbursed promptly and without any complications,” states the statement.

Source – myjoyonline.com