The University of Ghana has officially postponed the commencement of its 2024/2025 academic year following an ongoing, indefinite strike by several key staff unions. The strike, which began on September 16, 2024, has severely disrupted the institution’s operations, compelling management to postpone academic activities for the general student body.

Background of the Strike

At the center of this disruption are three major unions: the Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU), the Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), and the Federation of University Senior Staff Association of Ghana (FUSSAG).

These groups have come together to protest against multiple unresolved grievances, primarily concerning their working conditions.

Among the central issues is the delayed implementation of vehicle maintenance and off-campus allowances. Despite receiving approval from the Ministry of Finance in August 2024, the Controller and Accountant General’s Department (CAGD) has failed to execute the payments.

This delay has fueled discontent among university employees, as the allowances were expected to address the financial strain of maintaining work-related travel and living expenses.

In addition to these specific financial concerns, staff members are also protesting over the suspension of several other agreed-upon benefits, including pension contributions, which have been delayed for months.

The unions claim these ongoing issues are part of a broader pattern of neglect and poor labor conditions that have persisted without resolution for too long.

Impact on the University Community

The strike has cast a cloud of uncertainty over the academic calendar, with no definite end. University management has indicated that the start of the academic year will remain on hold until these labor disputes are resolved.

This has left thousands of students in limbo, unsure when their academic year will officially begin.

However, special programs at the university will continue as planned. These include essential research and professional programs that require consistent, uninterrupted timelines. For students in these fields, their academic schedules will proceed unaffected by the strike.

Official Statement from University Management

In a statement released on September 25, 2024, the University of Ghana’s Office of the Registrar expressed regret over the ongoing situation. The statement emphasized that university leadership constantly communicates with the government and the unions to seek a swift and amicable resolution to the current impasse.

The management also reassured students and faculty members that every effort is being made to restore normalcy. A revised academic calendar will be announced once the strike concludes and operational stability is restored.

The Road Ahead

The ongoing strike highlights a critical juncture in Ghana’s higher education sector, raising broader questions about the sustainability of staff welfare and the quality of educational infrastructure in the country.

The striking unions have made it clear that their return to work is contingent upon the fulfillment of their demands. As negotiations continue, students, staff, and stakeholders are urged to monitor official channels for further updates on the new academic year schedule.

In the meantime, the university community continues to brace itself for what could be an extended period of disruption unless both sides come to a resolution soon.