The President of the University of Ghana branch of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG-UG), Prof. Ransford Gyampo, has announced that the union will convene an emergency meeting tonight to review the current state of their industrial action. This decision comes in response to the indefinite suspension of parliamentary business, compounding the government’s ongoing challenges in addressing key national concerns, including illegal mining.
UTAG’s strike was initiated to pressure the government to take decisive action against illegal and irresponsible mining, which the association considers an existential threat. However, Prof. Gyampo expressed frustration over the government’s slow response to their demands and pointed out the mounting internal issues, including Parliament’s recent suspension, as contributing factors to the delay.
In his statement, Prof. Gyampo emphasized UTAG’s historical role in fighting against illegal mining, noting that the association had remained firm in its stance, even when others in Organized Labor had withdrawn their efforts prematurely.
At the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for tonight, UTAG will decide whether to continue their strike indefinitely or suspend it while exploring alternative measures. Any decision made by the NEC will be subject to approval by UTAG members through a vote.
The outcome of the meeting is expected to have significant implications for the ongoing strike, which affects students, parents, and the broader education sector in Ghana.