TUTAG gives government seven-day ultimatum over research allowance

The Technical University Teachers’ Association of Ghana (TUTAG) has demanded that the government release and pay the 2025/2026 Book and Research Allowance to eligible members within seven days. The Association expressed frustration over the ongoing delay in remitting the allowance, stating it was no longer tolerable as the academic year had concluded in most public and technical universities by late August 2026.

In a statement, TUTAG emphasized that the allowance is an essential entitlement for lecturers and researchers, facilitating the acquisition of books, scholarly materials, research tools, and other resources needed for teaching, research, publication, innovation, and professional development. TUTAG's President, Prof Deodat Emilson Adenutsi, and General Secretary, Dr Francis Fonyee Nutsugah, highlighted that the delay in releasing the allowance not only undermines its purpose but also forces academic staff to bear the financial burden of their teaching and research responsibilities.

The Association disclosed that they have been engaging in dialogue with the government and relevant government bodies but emphasized that if the payment is not made within the stipulated seven-day period, starting September 15, 2026, their members would have no choice but to take matters into their own hands, which could include industrial action.