The Tertiary Education Workers Union of Ghana (TEWU-GH) has declared an indefinite nationwide strike, effective Thursday, July 3, 2025, following the expiration of a 7-day ultimatum issued to government authorities over unresolved grievances regarding union representation on the Governing Councils of Traditional Public Universities.
The strike stems from the government’s decision to recognize TEWU-TUC, as the workers’ representative on university governing councils, despite TEWU-GH’s claim of majority membership and legal right to representation.
The Union argues that “this decision violates democratic principles, labour laws, and fair representation in Ghana’s tertiary education sector”.
In a strongly worded statement, TEWU-GH National Chairman, Suleman Abdul-Rahman, condemned the government’s failure to address their concerns, stating:
“We have been left with no choice but to take drastic action due to the blatant disregard for fairness, transparency, and the rights of the majority union. Our demands are clear, non-negotiable, and in line with the Labour Regulations 2007 (L.I 1833).”
The union has outlined three non-negotiable demands: immediate withdrawal of TEWU-TUC’s appointment as workers’ representative on governing councils, verification of union membership by the Chief Labour Officer to determine the legitimate majority union, as stipulated under Labour Laws (L.I 1833) and establishment of a transparent and democratic process for determining union representation in public universities.
With no satisfactory response from the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment, or other relevant authorities, TEWU-GH has directed all its members across public universities to withdraw their services indefinitely until their demands are met.
The strike is expected to disrupt administrative and support operations in universities, affecting non-teaching staff, including administrators, technicians, and maintenance workers.
TEWU-GH has called on other labour unions, civil society organizations, and the general public to support their cause, emphasizing the need for justice, fairness, and industrial harmony in Ghana’s education sector.
“We stand united in this fight for workers’ rights. We urge all members to comply fully with the strike action. Solidarity forever!” the statement concluded.
The Ministry of Education and the National Labour Commission are yet to issue an official response.
However, the strike threatens to escalate tensions if urgent mediation is not initiated.
With academic activities already facing disruptions, stakeholders fear prolonged industrial action could affect university operations ahead of the new academic year.
TEWU-GH remains open to dialogue but insists that only concrete action from the government will end the strike.