The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has directed its members to end their strike action by Tuesday, October 29, 2024. This announcement follows several weeks of industrial action that significantly disrupted academic activities at public universities nationwide.
UTAG initiated the strike on October 10, 2024, to protest against illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey. The association expressed concern over the severe environmental damage caused by galamsey, particularly the destruction of water bodies, which they argue threatens national sustainability.
After ongoing negotiations and discussions, the NEC concluded that UTAG members should return to their teaching duties, expressing hope that the government would take the necessary steps to address their concerns. The strike had resulted in the suspension of academic work, affecting thousands of students across the country.
In a statement, the NEC noted that the government had committed to intensifying efforts to combat the galamsey issue. While UTAG members are encouraged to resume their teaching responsibilities, the NEC stressed that they would continue to monitor the situation to ensure their demands are met.
With the strike set to officially conclude on October 29, tertiary students are expected to return to class by November 1, 2024, as normal academic activities are planned to resume.
