Assin Fosu (C/R), June 9, GNA-Teachers in the Assin district have decided to increase dues for their welfare fund from 5,000 to 20,000 cedis a month, to enable them to improve their socio-economic conditions. They have also planned to increase donations to bereaved members from 120,000 to 500,000 cedis.

The teachers, who arrived at this decision at their first biennial general meeting at Assin Fosu on Tuesday, described benefits paid to members from the fund currently as "meagre and unrealistic." Proposing the increase, Mr Ernest Boye, the out-going chairman of the fund observed that the current 5,000 cedis monthly dues could no longer sustain the fund. He also stressed the need for a membership drive, to include non-teaching personnel.

Mr Albert Awotwe, Assin District GNAT secretary suggested the procurement of a bus with money from the fund to be operated on commercial basis to generate additional income. Mr Kwasi Addison, Central Regional welfare officer, swore a new seven- member executive headed by Mr Twumasi Ankrah into office and urged them to show commitment in the discharge of their duties.

Mr Garth Oppong Kwakye, headmaster of Assin Manso secondary school, who chaired the function, asked teachers to strive to adequately meet the challenges of the times.