In the event that their book and research allowances are not
paid by June 13, 2025, the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), the
Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG), and the Colleges of
Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) have threatened to go on strike
nationwide. An "undue delay" in the provision of the currency rate
required to calculate these vital payments has angered the unions, which
represent a sizable section of Ghana's tertiary education workers. For instructors
who depend on the stipend to fund their teaching and research activities, this
delay has led to a great deal of uncertainty and unhappiness.
Following a combined meeting on June 8, the three unions
issued a single statement on June 9, 2025, emphasising that the book and
research allowance is a legislative requirement inherent in their Conditions of
Service rather than a discretionary perk. Their capacity to carry out vital
academic work, such as research that is necessary to improving Ghana's
educational environment, has been hampered by the delay in the disbursement of
these monies. The unions stated that they will not accept any more payment delays
past September 2025, even though they are prepared to accept a delayed exchange
rate release.
The ultimatum demonstrates the unions' determination to
uphold the integrity of the academic calendar and safeguard the welfare of
their members. They have issued a warning that if the June 13 deadline is
missed, it would be deemed an official notice of strike, which may result in
widespread strikes on college and university campuses across the country. A
strike of this kind may impede student growth, interfere with academic
activities, and put further burden on the already troubled education system.
The unions have demanded that the government take immediate
action to resolve their issues and carry out its responsibilities. They
emphasised how crucial it is to pay academics on time so they may carry on with
their job without facing financial difficulties, which eventually helps
students and the country's educational objectives. The government can prevent a
crisis that might destabilise higher education institutions and erode public
trust in its dedication to education by giving this problem top priority. The
government now has the opportunity to fulfil its obligations to Ghana's
academic community and avert an impending disturbance.
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