By: Kekeli K. Blamey
The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has directed its members to suspend their strike action, effective October 29, 2024.
This decision follows weeks of industrial action that disrupted academic activities in public universities nationwide.
UTAG embarked on the strike on October 10, 2024, to pressure the government into taking decisive action against illegal mining (galamsey) and its devastating environmental impact.
The association expressed concerns that galamsey threatens national sustainability, particularly due to the destruction of water bodies.
After ongoing negotiations and discussions, the NEC instructed UTAG members to return to the classroom, citing government assurances to intensify efforts against galamsey.
While resuming teaching duties, the NEC will continue monitoring the situation to ensure their demands are met.
The strike’s resolution comes as a relief to thousands of affected students, who can expect normal academic activities to resume by November 1, 2024.
The UTAG strike began on October 10, 2024, in protest of galamsey, affecting thousands of students in public universities nationwide. UTAG demanded government action to address environmental concerns.
With the strike’s end, UTAG members will return to the classroom, and the government will implement measures to combat galamsey.
The NEC will continue to monitor progress and advocate for sustainable solutions.
This development marks a significant step towards resolving the impasse and prioritizing the education and environmental concerns of Ghana’s university community.
