The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has warned government of a nationwide industrial action if it fails to address some conditions of service and outstanding welfare issues concerning its members across the various public universities in the country.
In a Thursday, June 18, 2026 National Executive Council (NEC) quarterly statutory meeting held at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in Ho, it arrived at a June 30 ultimatum which was communicated in a statement on June 19, 2026.
UTAG in the statement expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as prolonged delays in resolving matters that directly affect the welfare of university teachers and the credibility of the collective bargaining process.
Among the key concerns raised is the government’s failure to sign the Interim Salary Adjustment Agreement, despite negotiations having been concluded and agreed upon by all parties.
UTAG says the interim arrangement is intended to provide temporary financial relief for academic staff while awaiting a comprehensive salary review by the Independent Emoluments Commission, which is expected to take effect in January 2027.
Issues relating to post-retirement contract renewals, academic staff rollover, promotion arrears, unpaid allowances and delays in processing the 2026 Book and Research Allowance were also raised.
According to the Association, the slow approval and payroll placement of affected staff by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD) and the Ministry of Finance continue to disrupt operations in public universities.
UTAG has therefore called on the government to immediately implement the Interim Salary Adjustment Agreement and settle all outstanding payments and administrative matters.
The Association warned that if the concerns are not satisfactorily addressed by June 30, all branches would begin consultations within five working days to secure mandates for industrial action in accordance with the UTAG Constitution and the Labour Act.
Despite the warning, UTAG reiterated its commitment to dialogue and constructive engagement, stressing that the government must demonstrate good faith by honouring agreements reached with university teachers.
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