The National President of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), Prof. Mamudu Akudugu, has expressed disappointment with the decision of Organised Labour to suspend a nationwide strike, which was planned for October 10.
The strike was originally intended to protest the government’s handling of illegal mining (galamsey), an issue that has sparked nationwide concern.
Organised Labour called off the strike after the government announced a series of measures to combat illegal mining. These include the suspension of a legislative instrument that permitted mining in forest reserves, along with the deployment of military forces to clamp down on illegal mining activities.
Despite these moves, UTAG has distanced itself from the decision and commenced its own nationwide strike, which also took effect on October 10.
Prof. Mamaudu Akudugu emphasized that UTAG’s decision to strike was not influenced by political motives but was instead driven by the overwhelming support of its members across the 15 public universities it represents.
He noted that while many Ghanaians, including UTAG, are disappointed, they anticipated this outcome and, as a result, remained closely aligned with their internal processes. This preparation allowed them to take a firm stance in response to the situation.
Pro. Akudugu reiterated that UTAG’s actions are in the best interest of its members, not in service of any political agenda. He underscored the association’s duty to provide leadership, adding that any suggestion of political influence is an insult to the intellectual community of the country, which UTAG strongly rejects.