The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has given the government until June 30 to resolve several outstanding welfare and conditions-of-service issues affecting its members in public universities, warning that failure to act could trigger industrial action across the country.
The ultimatum was issued by the Association’s National Executive Council (NEC) following its quarterly statutory meeting held on June 18 at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in Ho.
In a statement dated June 19, UTAG expressed strong dissatisfaction with the prolonged delays in addressing key concerns that impact the welfare of university teachers and the credibility of the collective bargaining process.
A major issue raised is the government’s failure to sign the Interim Salary Adjustment Agreement, despite negotiations having been concluded and agreed upon by all parties.
According to UTAG, the interim arrangement is intended to provide temporary financial relief for academic staff while awaiting the full salary review by the Independent Emoluments Commission, expected to take effect in January 2027.
The Association also highlighted unresolved matters including post-retirement contract renewals, academic staff rollover, promotion arrears, unpaid allowances, and delays in processing the 2026 Book and Research Allowance.
UTAG noted that the slow approval and payroll placement of affected staff by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD), and the Ministry of Finance continue to disrupt operations in public universities.
The Association has therefore called on the government to immediately implement the Interim Salary Adjustment Agreement and clear all outstanding payments and administrative issues.
UTAG warned that if these concerns are not satisfactorily addressed by June 30, all branches will begin consultations within five working days to secure mandates for industrial action, in accordance with the UTAG Constitution and the Labour Act.
Despite the ultimatum, UTAG reiterated its commitment to dialogue and constructive engagement, urging the government to demonstrate good faith by honouring agreements reached with university teachers.
Editor:
Obiri-Yeboah
