President John Dramani Mahama has described the demands of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) as legitimate and has assured the union of the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns raised.

Speaking at the 54th National Delegates Conference of GNAT, President Mahama acknowledged challenges associated with the single-spine salary structure, admitting that the system has become distorted over the years.

He said the government is prepared to undertake a comprehensive review of the salary structure to improve teacher remuneration and enhance productivity across the public sector.

The President also announced plans to review the three-tier pension scheme, following concerns raised by organised labour, to ensure that workers retire with dignity and adequate financial security.

President Mahama further condemned assaults on teachers, describing such acts as criminal and unacceptable.

He pledged that firm action would be taken against individuals who attack educators, assuring teachers of a safe and secure working environment.

On his part, the President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers, Reverend Isaac Owusu, reiterated the union’s firm stance against violence directed at teachers, declaring 2026 as a year of zero tolerance for assaults and brutality against educators.

Reverend Owusu warned that any attack on a teacher would attract the collective response of the teaching fraternity nationwide, stressing that teachers would no longer remain passive in the face of violence. He also used the occasion to present a number of demands to President Mahama, calling for urgent reforms to improve the welfare, safety, and working conditions of teachers across the country.

The conference brought together teacher leaders and education stakeholders from across the country to discuss key issues affecting the teaching profession and the future of education in Ghana.