The leadership of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) and the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG) have presented what they deem as urgent issues confronting higher education institutions to the Vice President, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang.
Led by the national presidents, Prof. Mamudu A. Akudugu (UTAG) and Prof. Uriah S. Tetteh (TUTAG), the key challenges outlined as affecting higher education included infrastructure deficits that hinder both academic and administrative functions, a high student-to-lecturer ratio that compromises the quality of teaching and learning, and the deteriorating conditions of service for university staff.
Other concerns raised were inadequate national research funding, which undermines innovation and knowledge transfer, the legal framework for the Ghana Universities Superannuation Scheme (GUSSS), the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) and its harmful environmental impact, as well as national security issues and the need for peace.
In a statement released by UTAG on January 21, 2025, and signed by President Prof. Mamudu A. Akudugu and National Secretary Prof. Eliasu Mumuni, the Vice President assured the associations of the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges.
She emphasised the importance of universities being innovative and collaborating with the government and other stakeholders to find solutions.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang is reported to have stated that university campuses should serve as safe spaces where academics can freely discuss national issues, using their research findings and available facts, without political bias.
She admonished the academic community to guard against the potential threats of politicisation and its impact on academic freedom.
The discussions were candid and productive, focused on working towards shared goals to enhance Ghana’s higher education system and advance the national interest as a whole.
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