The threat of a nationwide strike by the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has eased after the association reached a fresh agreement with the government over longstanding concerns about the conditions of service of university lecturers.
The decision means the industrial action scheduled for July 6 has been suspended, following renewed negotiations that resulted in written commitments from the government.
UTAG says the latest agreement represents significant progress in efforts to resolve outstanding issues through dialogue.
Government Gives Fresh Assurances
In an interview with Channel One News, which was closely monitored by ATLFMNEWS, UTAG General Secretary Dr. Joe Harrison said the association decided to suspend the planned strike after several meetings with the government produced concrete commitments.
According to him, the government has provided written assurances and signed agreements outlining steps to address concerns raised by the association.
He noted that negotiations remain ongoing, with some issues already being addressed.
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Strike Suspended, Not Cancelled
Although the industrial action has been suspended, Dr. Harrison cautioned that UTAG could reactivate the strike if government fails to honour its commitments.
He stressed that the association expects the agreed measures to be implemented within the agreed timelines.
According to him, the suspension reflects UTAG’s willingness to give dialogue another opportunity.
Conditions of Service Remain Priority
The association says improving lecturers’ conditions of service remains central to the ongoing discussions with government.
UTAG believes meaningful progress on these issues is essential to strengthening higher education and improving the welfare of university lecturers nationwide.
UTAG Responds to Comments on University Programmes
Dr. Harrison also criticised comments attributed to former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, who reportedly questioned the relevance of some university programmes, including Development Studies.
He argued that higher education should not be measured solely by immediate employment outcomes.
According to him, universities exist to develop critical thinking, innovation, and graduates capable of adapting to changing economic and social demands.
Hope for Lasting Resolution
UTAG says it remains committed to engaging government in good faith while monitoring the implementation of the agreed commitments.
The association expressed optimism that continued dialogue would lead to a lasting resolution and help avoid future disruptions to academic activities in public universities.
