2025 Salary Negotiations; 50,000 Postal workers across Canada entered the fifth day of a labour strike

More than 50,000 postal workers across Canada entered the fifth day of a labour strike over pay and working conditions, disrupting mail delivery ahead of the busy holiday season.

The union representing employees at Canada Post – the country’s main postal operator – has said that negotiations remain “far apart” and are ongoing.

Workers are asking for a wage increase, and want the ability to work weekends with overtime pay instead of having Canada Post rely on outside contractors.

The operator, which has faced significant financial losses in recent years, has warned that the labour disruption “would affect millions of Canadians and businesses who rely on the postal service”.

The work stoppage, which began on Friday, has halted mail and parcel services across the country, including the delivery of bank cards and statements, general mail, new passports and online shopping orders – all at a time when people across Canada are preparing and buying gifts for the holidays.

The Canadian government has since appointed a special mediator to help both sides reach an agreement.

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) and Canada Post entered a new round of mediated negotiations on Monday, but both sides have said they remain far away from reaching a deal.

The union wants a 24% pay increase over the next four years – higher than the 11.5% increase proposed by employer Canada Post. They are also negotiating issues around benefits, sick leave, job conditions and security.

“Our demands are reasonable: fair wages, safe working conditions, the right to retire with dignity and the expansion of services at the public post office,” the union has said.

Canada Post has warned that its services will be disrupted even if an agreement with its workers is reached, writing in a statement last week that “a national strike of any length will impact service to Canadians well after the strike activity ends”.

It added that it has already felt an impact, with customers switching to private competitors or stopping use of its services altogether as the strike is ongoing.

The last time Canadian postal workers walked off the job was in October 2018. Back then, rotating strikes lasted more than a month before the federal government mandated that employees go back to work through legislation.

That job action cost Canada Post around C$135m ($96.7m; £76.27m).

The latest strike comes as the Crown corporation deals with big financial losses of C$3bn since 2016, primarily due to the fact that people are sending fewer letters than before.

Rivals like Amazon, FedEx and UPS have also taken a chunk of Canada Post’s business.

In its 2023 annual report, the operator said its financial situation is “unsustainable”, and had projected that it will run out of cash unless it borrows C$1bn and refinances its existing debt.

“Canada Post is at a critical juncture in its history,” the report stated, adding that with mounting financial pressures, the publicly-owned mail operator is “under significant threat”.

Ghana ranks in the top 25 countries globally for sending students to the United States

Accra, Ghana – For the second year in a row, Ghana ranks in the top 25 countries globally for sending students to the United States. According to the 2024 Open Doors Report, Ghana now ranks 18th with a total of 9,394 Ghanaians who studied in the United States in 2023-2024 – an increase of 45.2 percent and an all-time record high. The Open Doors Report is published annually by the Institute of International Education (IIE), analyzing the number of international students in the United States.

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Ghanaians in graduate degree programs totaled 6,337, representing a 54 percent increase and making Ghana the 9th largest sender globally of graduate students to the United States. Ghanaian students earned nearly $9.2 million in scholarships to more than 680 higher educational institutions in all 50 U.S. states.

Education USA Infographic 2024

The United States remains the top destination for international students with over one million (1,126,690) international students in academic year 2023-2024, which is a 7 percent increase over the previous year. The majority of international students study in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields, while math and computer science continued to grow as the leading field of study for international students.

Through EducationUSA, the U.S. Department of State’s network of education advisers, the U.S. Embassy provides guidance virtually and in person to qualified individuals on how to successfully apply to U.S. colleges and universities. Ghana has EducationUSA Advising Centers in Accra and Kumasi. The newest Advising Center in Osu will be open to the public in late November to make advising services more accessible to prospective students.

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Teachers and Educational Workers Union of -TUC Declares strike today over unaddressed conditions of service

TEWU-TUC Declares Nationwide Strike Over Unaddressed Conditions of Service

Accra, Ghana – November 18, 2024
The Teachers and Educational Workers Union of the Trades Union Congress (TEWU-TUC) declared a nationwide strike today, citing the government’s failure to resolve longstanding issues related to their members’ conditions of service.

TEWU-TUC expressed deep frustration over delays in finalizing, signing, and implementing revised conditions of service for employees under the Ghana Education Service (GES), Ghana Library Authority, Museums and Monuments Board, and both Public Technical and Traditional Universities.

The union emphasized that these negotiations have been drawn out for years, leaving their members increasingly dissatisfied and uncertain about their working conditions as a new academic year commences, particularly during the crucial period of first-year student admissions.

The union’s leadership warned that the patience of its members has worn thin after four years of stalled negotiations. If immediate action is not taken to resolve these issues, the union has committed to sustaining industrial action indefinitely.

Statement from General Secretary King James Azortibah
“It is worrying that the government has yet to finalize the various Conditions of Service for our members, despite years of negotiation. Our members cannot continue working under uncertain terms, especially with the new academic year underway. If the government does not resolve these issues, we will embark on indefinite industrial action starting today.”

Further Developments
The National Labour Commission (NLC) has summoned TEWU-TUC and other relevant stakeholders to a meeting on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, to address the matter.

Non-Upgraded Teachers Demand Urgent Action from Ghana Education Service and NPP: Upgrade or Face Backlash in Election 2024

Non-Upgraded Teachers Demand Urgent Action from Ghana Education Service and NPP: Upgrade or Face Backlash in Election 2024


In the lead-up to the 2024 elections, Ghana Education Service Union’s non-upgraded teachers have issued a powerful ultimatum to the New Patriotic Party (NPP): address their upgrading needs or risk losing their votes. Many of these educators, including teachers posted in the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 periods after completing study leave programs, have awaited upgrades to Principal Superintendent status for over a year. Despite completing additional qualifications and shouldering new responsibilities, these teachers report that they have not received the necessary promotions, salary adjustments, or responsibility allowances for their roles.

Union’s Call to Action

The Ghana Education Service Non-Upgraded Teachers (GESNUT) group, represented by their President and Secretary, have formally requested a discussion with the Director General of the Ghana Education Service (GES). Their key demands are as follows:

  1. Clarification on Upgrade Delays: Many teachers have awaited professional advancements since as far back as 2019. The lack of progress and limited communication from GES has led to frustration among teachers who feel that their professional development and well-being are neglected.
  2. Salary and Allowance Adjustments: Teachers who have pursued higher qualifications are calling for salaries and responsibility allowances that reflect their new qualifications. Without these adjustments, they continue to be compensated at outdated rates.
  3. Timeline for Resolution: GESNUT has requested an official timeline for completing the upgrade process and adjusting salaries, urging prompt action to prevent further frustration.

Possible Consequences for Inaction

GESNUT has communicated that, should there be no response within a week, they will pursue alternative avenues to address their concerns. With the 2024 elections approaching, the group warns that failure to resolve these issues may significantly impact the NPP’s support within the teaching community. Their appeal emphasizes a desire for constructive dialogue, urging GES and the NPP to address their longstanding grievances.

GES Teachers Promotion is Based on Political Favouritism – DDs Tell Bawumia

A coalition of teachers with the rank of Deputy Director has alleged that promotions within the Ghana Education Service (GES) are based on political favouritism.

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According to the aggrieved teachers, led by Mr Newell Anokye Abrefa, leadership at the GES has paid no attention to their calls for promotion over the past eight years.

The group claimed that promotions to higher ranks in the service are granted based on political connections.

“Imagine becoming a Deputy Director at the age of 40; it means that for the remaining 20 years of your active service, you are expected to remain in that rank. What is happening is that if you don’t have a political ‘godfather’ to support your appointment to perhaps a district or regional director position, you will remain in that rank forever,” he alleged.

“Teachers are very bitter about this issue,” he added.

The coalition, therefore, called on Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who is seeking to become president, to urgently address their concerns or risk losing the votes of affected teachers.

“We are calling on the Vice President of Ghana to remember what happened in 2008. If he wants to win power in this country, teachers are very important,” Mr Newell Anokye warned.

They also noted that the GES authorities’ failure to promote deserving teachers would not only affect their salaries and other allowances but also make them vulnerable in their retirement years.

“At the end of your career, you would go home with meagre pension benefits,” he noted.

The affected teachers made these statements during a press conference held in Kumasi to express their grievances.

Currently, Teachers Who wrote the Promotion Exams are waiting for their promotion Results and to be placed on the Appropriate Ranks Read more below

What is the Fate of GES 2024 Promotion Results as Teachers Await Promotions with Concerns. 69% Pass Up or Down

 

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Teachers to receive incentives to buy one vehicle ; Key Highlights on Edu from NPP 2024 Manifesto Dr Bawumia

Credit; myjoyonline.com

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Palau Residence Permit and Work Entry Visa

Palau Residence Permit and Work Entry Visa: Your Gateway to Opportunities

Palau, a beautiful island nation in the western Pacific, offers unique opportunities for individuals looking to work, live, and potentially make their way to the United States. Though lesser-known, this U.S.-affiliated country uses the U.S. dollar, making it a convenient option for those interested in living in an American-influenced environment with easier financial management. Here’s how you can take advantage of the Palau residence permit and work entry visa to start your journey.

Why Choose Palau?

Located close to the U.S., Palau offers a unique blend of natural beauty and career opportunities, all while using the U.S. dollar as its currency. This similarity simplifies financial transactions and can ease the transition for those ultimately aiming to move to the U.S. after gaining experience in Palau. Additionally, with the support of structured relocation packages, obtaining a visa, residence permit, and job placement is straightforward and well-organized.

Palau Residence Permit and Entry Visa Package Overview

  • Total Cost: GHS 60,000
  • Initial Deposit: GHS 10,000 (for registration, documentation, processing, and visa fees)
  • Processing Duration: Approximately 3-4 months
  • Included Benefits:
    • Entrance visa
    • Work permit
    • Residence permit

Travel Route:

Note that there is no direct flight from Ghana to Palau. Typically, travelers go from Ghana to Singapore and then from Singapore to Palau.

What Does the Package Cover?

The Palau visa package is designed to handle the essential aspects of your relocation:

  1. Processing Fees & Visa Application Fees: All necessary application fees are included.
  2. Accommodation Arrangements: Secure accommodation will be arranged upon arrival, ensuring a smooth start to your new life.
  3. Guaranteed Job Placement: A job offer is provided, allowing you to begin working right away.
  4. Airport Pickup: To facilitate a seamless transition, airport pickup services are included, taking you from the airport directly to your accommodation.

Important Note

This package does not cover the cost of your travel ticket to Palau. The flight costs are separate and will need to be arranged accordingly.

Requirements for the Visa Application

Applying for a working visa in Palau is straightforward. To get started, please prepare the following:

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV): Your CV should include your work experience, educational background, and relevant skills.
  • Passport Biodata Page: A clear copy showing your personal information and photograph.
  • Passport Photo: A recent passport-sized photo with a white background.

Processing Time

The processing time for this visa takes about 2 months (8 weeks). During this period, all necessary documentation will be verified, and arrangements will be made for your job placement and accommodation, giving you peace of mind and a smooth transition to Palau.

How to Get Started

Ready to take the next step? Gather your documents, make sure your passport is up-to-date, and start the application process. In a few steps, you’ll be on your way to living and working in Palau.

Contact Information for Package Enrollment:

  • Travel Agencies: Seekers Consult or Fosem Travel and Tour
  • Phone/WhatsApp: +233 550 414 552
  • Limited WhatsApp Group: Request Approval to Join 

Take the Leap!

With this package, the process of relocating to Palau has never been easier. Start your new career, experience life in a U.S.-affiliated country, and potentially use this as a stepping stone to reach the United States. Make the decision to embrace a new opportunity, and let your journey begin!

Download Learner Materials & Teaching Resources for SHS, SHTS, and STEM in the New Curriculum

Download Learner Materials & Teaching Resources for SHS, SHTS, and STEM in the New Curriculum

The Ministry of Education has launched a new curriculum microsite, which serves as an essential resource hub for the Senior High School (SHS), Senior High Technical School (SHTS), and STEM programs. This platform offers a wealth of teaching and learning materials designed to enhance the educational experience. Whether you’re a teacher or a learner, the resources are categorized for easy access. Select the category that applies to you and start downloading the materials you need.

Available Resources

For Learners:

  • Year 1
  • Year 2
  • Year 3
  • General/Library/Supplementary Materials

For Teachers:

  • Year 1
  • Year 2
  • Year 3
  • Professional Development

Download Complete Populated Learning Planner GOVERNMENT SHS/SHTS/STEM

Learner Resources

You can search for and download subject-specific materials, including but not limited to the following:

  • Additional Mathematics
  • Agricultural Science
  • Agriculture
  • Applied Technology
  • Arabic
  • Art and Design Foundation
  • Arts and Design Studio
  • Aviation and Aerospace Engineering
  • Biology
  • Biomedical Science
  • Business Studies
  • Chemistry
  • Computing
  • Core Physical Education and Health (PEH)
  • Design and Communication Technology
  • Economics
  • Elective Physical Education and Health (PEH)
  • Engineering
  • English Language
  • Geography
  • Ghanaian Language
  • Government
  • History
  • Home Economics
  • Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
  • Intervention English
  • Intervention Mathematics
  • Literature-in-English
  • Manufacturing Engineering
  • Mathematics
  • Performing Arts
  • Physics
  • Religious Studies
  • Robotics
  • General Science
  • Religious and Moral Education
  • Social Studies
  • Spanish
  • French

Download Complete Populated Learning Planner AGRICULTURE SHS/SHTS/STEM

Teacher Resources

Teacher-specific resources are also available for download, covering the same subjects as those listed for learners. Teachers can access additional materials that cater to professional development and curriculum planning. Some of the subjects include:

  • Additional Mathematics
  • Agricultural Science
  • Agriculture
  • Applied Technology
  • Arabic
  • Art and Design Foundation
  • Arts and Design Studio
  • Aviation and Aerospace Engineering
  • Biology
  • Biomedical Science
  • Business Studies
  • Chemistry
  • Computing
  • Core Physical Education and Health (PEH)
  • Design and Communication Technology
  • Economics
  • Elective Physical Education and Health (PEH)
  • Engineering
  • English Language
  • Geography
  • Ghanaian Language
  • Government
  • History
  • Home Economics
  • Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
  • Intervention English
  • Intervention Mathematics
  • Literature-in-English
  • Manufacturing Engineering
  • Mathematics
  • Performing Arts
  • Physics
  • Religious Studies
  • Robotics
  • General Science
  • Religious and Moral Education
  • Social Studies
  • Spanish
  • French

How to Access

All the materials, in soft copy format, are available for download at the official website:
http://curriculumresources.edu.gh

Visit the site, search for your desired subject, and click “View” to access and download the files directly.

 

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NDC unveils ‘comprehensive’ strategy to create 1.7m jobs, calls out NPP on mounting unemployment crisis

The National Democratic Congress on Monday, October 14, 2024, announced what it calls a comprehensive employment and jobs creation strategy for a John Mahama presidency.

Jobs

The NDC says it will create 1.7 million jobs between 2025 and 2029.

This will absorb the expected 300 thousand yearly entrants into the workforce and reduce current unemployment levels by 120,000 of each year.

The party’s Employment and Jobs Creation committee announced at a briefing in Accra.

NDC will achieve these targets despite the debilitating employment deficit and economic crisis that the NPP will leave behind come 7th January 2025, through a strategy resting on five pillars.

We call this strategy MAN-UP-C:

a. M – Modernise and revamp employment institutions and legislation focused on job
creation;

b. A – “Aspire 24” programme to reorient employer and employee mindsets’;

c. N – “National Employment Trust” to mobilise resources for a concerted jobs push;

d. UP – “Levelling Up” programme to ensure inclusiveness in employment; and

e. C – Coordination through a high-level “National Employment Coordination Committee”

The Truth About Unemployment

At a media engagement on 25th August 2024, the NPP presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, repeated his claim that the NPP has created 2.3 million jobs in 7 years and that unemployment is declining. He offered no evidence for his claims because they are untrue.

Joblessness and related poverty, hopelessness, and despair are on the increase across the length and breadth of the country. The Ghana Statistical Service’s Annual Household Income and Expenditure Survey states that 2.1 million Ghanaians, representing 14.7% of our labour force, are unemployed. This is an increase of more than 1 million unemployed people since 2017. The unemployment rate has increased from 8.3% in 2017 to 14.7% by 2023. That is the truth.

Additionally, many in employment cannot make ends meet. Of the 11.2 million people employed in 2023, an overwhelming 8.2 million (almost 70%) are in vulnerable work with low-paying jobs, no social protection, and poor working conditions. They are trapped in a perennial cycle of poverty. This is the category that we call “working poor”. This is also the truth.

Indeed, between 2017 and 2023, Ghana’s economy, on average, employed less than 45% of the persons entering the labour force each year. The NPP-managed economy created more than 170,000 newly unemployed persons each year. The NPP created more unemployment than employment in their eight years in power. Indeed, unemployed Ghanaians doubled from 1 million in 2017 to 2.1 million by 2023. This is also the truth.

As many as 7.3 million Ghanaians (24.5% of the population) are multi-dimensionally poor, while a whopping 8.4 million people go without food daily. This is the painful truth.

Dr Bawumia’s figures are deceitful. They disrespect the intelligence of 56% of new entrants into the labour force each year who cannot find jobs, and millions fall into hardcore unemployment – 1.3 million young people “Not in Education, Employment, or Training” (NEET).

The Bitter Fruits of the NPP’s Unemployment Debacle

The reality is that our so-called “economic growth” has been jobless under NPP. Our “growth” represents irresponsible borrowings and taxes – and not production. Our graduates pour out of tertiary and specialised training institutions just to join the ranks of the unemployed. Our artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs see their livelihoods disappear as rampant inflation reduces the value of their already meagre incomes and their ability to create jobs.

The NDC Job Creation Strategy

President John Dramani and the NDC have a clear, actionable strategy to reverse the NPP’s dismal employment record. Our strategy rests on five clear pillars.

We will modernise the Legal and Institutional Environment to accelerate decent job creation. This will include accelerated implementation of the Ghana Labour Market
Information System, updating the Labour Bill 2024 into an Employment Act to replace the existing Labour Act 2023, and putting in place a Bilateral Labour migration framework to support safe, orderly and regular labour migration of Ghanaians to other countries, facilitate access to decent work abroad, and ensure respect for human rights and fundamental labour rights for Ghanaian workers who migrate.
We will launch the ‘Aspire 24” programme to equip Ghanaian workers and enterprises with the values, mindset, skills, tools, work ethic, and incentives to increase productivity and thrive in the 24-hour Economy.
We will establish a National Employment Trust (NET) to collaborate with Enterprise Support Organizations to provide financial and technical support to start-ups and growth-stage SMEs, making them growth and job creation engines in Ghana.
We will roll out the “Levelling-Up” programme to . This will include, among others, the establishment of the Women’s Bank, reform and enhancement of pensions for workers in the informal sector, and provision of digital skills for persons with disabilities.
Finally, we will set up the National Employment Coordination Committee with representatives from the Government, Labour, Employers, Students, and the Informal Sector to support the Minister of Employment in coordinating, implementing, We are very much aware of the challenges to creating a robust employment ecosystem, considering the economy’s decay. However, these challenges are surmountable. With deliberate and painstaking policy interventions anchored on the 24-hour economy, we aim to create 1.7 million jobs between 2025 and 2029 and systematically reduce unemployment to below 5% by 2034, if not earlier.

Conclusion

Accompanying this press release is a booklet that provides further details of our plan to guide an all-inclusive job-creation drive.

The Mahama government will hit the ground running with bold, practical policies that will transform our economy and create jobs for the unemployed and first-time entrants into the labour market. We invite all Ghanaians to join us in our quest to build an economy centred on job creation and inclusive growth.

Together, we can reset and build the Ghana we want.

[signed]
Goosie Tanoh
Chairman – Employment and Jobs Creation Committee
NDC

Fair Wages and Salary Commission Fails to Negotiate; NCCE Notifies of Strike Action

Fair Wages and Salary Commission Fails to Negotiate; NCCE Notifies of Strike Action

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) Divisional Staff Union of the Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU) of TUC (Ghana) has announced an indefinite strike beginning on September 18, 2024. The strike follows the failure of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) to reconvene for negotiations on staff allowances, despite reminders from the union.

Negotiations, initially scheduled in May 2023, stalled after the FWSC delayed proceedings and showed a lack of commitment to addressing the union’s concerns. This delay, combined with worsening economic conditions and eroding purchasing power, has led NCCE staff to take action.

In the lead-up to the strike, red flags will be raised at all offices, and staff are expected to wear red attire starting September 16. Meetings will be held to further outline the strike’s roadmap.

The union remains firm in its demand for the FWSC to reconvene negotiations and meet their terms, stating that the time for delay tactics has passed.

Full Statement

NOTICE OF STRIKE ACTION BY NCCE

 

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Public sector workers salary negotiations and Minimum wage for 2025

Public Sector Workers Salary Negotiations and Minimum Wage for 2025: What to Expect

 

When will the 2025 salary negotiations commence?

This question has been frequently asked by many, reflecting the anticipation and hope surrounding the upcoming negotiations. Public sector workers in Ghana are eager to see what the future holds for their wages.

Ghana’s Revised National Daily Minimum Wage for 2024

In accordance with Section 113 (1) (a) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), the National Tripartite Committee increased the national daily minimum wage from GHS 14.88 to GHS 18.15, effective from January 1, 2024. All establishments, institutions, or organizations with daily minimum wages below the new rate had to adjust accordingly. This adjustment also brought about an increase in taxes and utility costs.

Historical Wage Increments

Recent years have seen varying increments in base pay under the Single Spine Salary Structure:

Despite these increments, workers argue that the value of their pay has diminished due to inflation and rising living costs.

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Upcoming Negotiations for 2025

With the new year approaching, workers are eager to know when the negotiations for 2025 will commence. Some suggest timing the negotiations close to the election period but ensuring they conclude before the elections. The concern is that politicians might delay these negotiations until next year, which would be unfavorable for the workers.

The Role of the National Labour Commission (NLC) and Trade Unions

The National Labour Commission (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and sister associations have demonstrated their influence in managing the country’s labor issues. Their recent collective intention to strike over the sale of a 60% stake in SSNIT Hotels highlighted their power. Such actions remind us of the significant impact these unions can have when they unite for a common cause.  Organised Labour Strike 

Current Economic Pressures on Workers

Inflation, utility bills, and high prices of goods and services are eroding workers’ salaries before they even receive them. This financial strain is further exacerbated for those involved in foreign trade with the dollar. Workers are hopeful for an increase in the minimum wage and salary increments for the coming year.

Looking Forward to 2025

As of July 13, 2024, the minimum wage of GHS 18.5 is equivalent to $1.19, given the exchange rate of $15.5000. Workers are advocating for an increase that will significantly impact their lives, enabling them to pay bills, fees, and support their families.

They desire a realistic proposal, with many suggesting an increment of more than 50% of their basic salary, especially after the unions’ previous 70% proposal ended with just a 23% increment.

 

The 2025 salary negotiations are crucial for public sector workers in Ghana. With the economic pressures they face, a substantial wage increase is not just desirable but necessary.

The role of the unions will be pivotal in these negotiations, and workers are looking to them for a favorable outcome that will improve their quality of life.

source;Gesi360.com