Salamatu Mahamah Braimah is the first woman elected as the national chairperson of the Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union, (TEWU), of Trade Union Congress after 65 years since its inception.
Madam Braimah, formerly the Deputy Registrar at Accra Technical University, ascended to the position from her previous role as the Union’s Second National Vice Chairperson.
The election also saw King James Azortibah, Chief Finance Officer of TEWU at TUC Ghana, assume the role of General Secretary, succeeding Mark Dankyira Korankye. Charles Kofi Osei, the immediate past Deputy General Secretary, was re-elected for the same position.
The leadership lineup further includes Olivia Oparebia Obuobi as Second National Vice Chairperson and Ken Botchway as Second National Trustee. Richmond Sakyi and Fati Bintu Adamu secured their positions as First National Vice Chairman and First National Trustee, respectively, uncontested.
These appointments came during the 13th Quadrennial National Delegates Conference held at the Pentecost Convention Centre in Gomoa Fetteh near Kasoa, Central Region.
Following their election, the new national officers took their oath of office, administered by Mr. Joshua Ansah, the Deputy TUC Secretary-General, who emphasised the importance of upholding the trust and confidence bestowed upon them by the members.
He called on TEWU members to support the new leaders in achieving the union’s goals for the next quadrennial and beyond.
In her acceptance speech, Madam Braimah expressed the union’s commitment to transformative change aimed at improving working conditions for members. She pledged inclusivity and innovative programmes to enhance the union’s visibility.
Mr. Azortibah, the newly-elected General Secretary, emphasised the readiness of the new leadership to engage constructively with social partners.
He cautioned employers against employing delay tactics during negotiations, stressing the need for prompt action on members’ demands.
Both Madam Braimah and Mr. Azortibah urged political party leaders and supporters to prioritise national peace and stability during political campaigns, highlighting the importance of a peaceful environment for workers to contribute effectively to national development efforts.
