The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has given the government until June 30, 2026, to address a number of outstanding welfare and conditions-of-service issues affecting academic staff in public universities, warning that failure to do so could lead to nationwide industrial action.
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 frustration over what it described as persistent delays in resolving matters that impact the welfare of university teachers and undermine confidence in the collective bargaining process.
A major concern highlighted by the Association is the government’s failure to sign the Interim Salary Adjustment Agreement, despite negotiations having been concluded and agreed upon by all parties involved.
According to UTAG, the interim salary arrangement is intended to provide temporary financial relief for academic staff pending a comprehensive salary review by the Independent Emoluments Commission, which is expected to take effect in January 2027.
The Association also raised concerns over unresolved issues including post-retirement contract renewals, academic staff rollover arrangements, promotion arrears, unpaid allowances, and delays in the processing of the 2026 Book and Research Allowance.
UTAG further criticised the slow approval and payroll placement processes involving the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD), and the Ministry of Finance, saying the delays continue to affect the smooth operation of public universities.
The Association has therefore called on the government to immediately implement the Interim Salary Adjustment Agreement and settle all outstanding financial and administrative obligations owed to university teachers.
UTAG warned that should the concerns remain unresolved by June 30, all its branches across the country would begin consultations within five working days to obtain the necessary mandates for industrial action in accordance with the UTAG Constitution and the Labour Act.
Despite the warning, the Association reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue and constructive engagement, stressing that government must demonstrate good faith by honouring agreements reached with university teachers.
UTAG maintained that resolving the outstanding issues promptly would not only improve staff welfare but also help maintain industrial harmony and support the effective delivery of higher education across the country.
