By: Nana Antwi Boasiako
The National President of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), Professor Mamudu Akudugu has strongly disputed claims made by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) that UTAG members do not contribute to the fund and therefore lack the standing to demand the dissolution of the SSNIT Board and Management.
In an interview on Happy98.9FM’s morning show with Kwadwo Sefah-Danquah, Prof. Akudugu clarified that while UTAG has its own pension scheme, a significant number of its members had already contributed to SSNIT before joining the association, and some continue to do so.
He pointed out that certain members had previously taught in basic schools and still have contributions with SSNIT which haven’t been transfered to UTAG pension scheme, giving them a vested interest and the right to speak out on matters related to the SSNIT.
He added that, individuals who join UTAG after age 46 do not qualify to contribute to UTAG pension scheme and are still required to contribute to SSNIT, further solidifying UTAG’s stake in the matter.
Prof. Akudugu emphasized that UTAG’s contributions to SSNIT and their members’ continued interest in the fund give them every right to demand accountability and call for the dissolution of the SSNIT Board and Management if necessary.