The Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU) at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) have embarked on a sit-down strike over delayed payment of salary arrears. The workers expect to receive 20 months pay arrears from government, following their migration unto the Single Spine Salary Structure (SSSS). The Public Services Joint Standing Negotiating Committee concluded a 10 percent pay increase across-the-board for all public servants effective January 2010. The committee agreed that the payment of the new salary levels will be effected in tranches. However, the TEWU members are unhappy payment of the first tranche of five months arrears promised last December has not been carried through. The agitated workers have hoisted red flags, whilst members wear red arm and head bands. Local TEWU Chairman, Charles Arthur, tells Luv News members will resume work only after the five months arrears have been paid. “The government will come out saying that he has paid, the management will say that government has not given them any money for such arrears,” he told Luv Fm. Mr. Arthur said the Union “will do everything possible” to ensure the government follows the agreed time table in effecting the payment. Barely a week into the new academic session, the TEWU members have deserted their duty posts. Mr. Arthur anticipates the industrial action will affect teaching and learning at the University.