TUTAG declares indefinite strike from October 1 over unpaid post-retirement contracts, conditions of service

The Technical University Teachers’ Association of Ghana (TUTAG) has announced an indefinite strike effective October 1, 2026, due to unresolved issues concerning teachers’ conditions of service and contractual rights. This decision came after a unanimous resolution by the association’s Congress on September 24, 2026, following extended negotiations with the government and relevant agencies.

At a press conference in Ho Technical University, TUTAG President Prof. Deodat E. Adenutsi explained that the strike was necessary due to the persistent failure to address key concerns. Specifically, TUTAG highlighted that some post-retirement contract holders have been unpaid for over 27 months, despite fulfilling their contractual obligations.

Prof. Adenutsi also reported that some affected teachers have unfortunately passed away while awaiting their overdue payments, raising concerns for their families and dependents. The association is demanding the immediate payment of all verified outstanding contractual remuneration and a clear timeline for payment. Additionally, TUTAG is protesting unilateral changes to the agreed Scheme of Service, particularly affecting university librarians and Assistant Lecturers and Assistant Research Fellows.

The association seeks resolution regarding discrepancies in classification, remuneration, and the payment of market premiums and arrears. Moreover, TUTAG is challenging a directive from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) from July 31, 2025, requiring Assistant Lecturers and Assistant Research Fellows to hold a PhD before being reclassified as Lecturers or Research Fellows.

The association argues that the 2021 Scheme of Service mandates a PhD only in conjunction with specified service, teaching performance, and publication criteria, and calls for consultation on any scheme revisions. TUTAG also noted that the Book and Research Allowance for the 2025/26 academic year is no longer a substantial basis for the strike, as steps have been taken by the government to initiate payments.

As part of the industrial action, TUTAG members have been instructed to cease their services in teaching, student research supervision, and examination mark submission indefinitely. However, they are expected to continue other professional duties, such as attending meetings, serving on boards and committees, conducting research, and engaging in community service.

Prof. Adenutsi acknowledged the potential disruption to students and university communities due to the strike but emphasized the importance of defending teachers' contractual rights and agreed conditions of service. He urged the government and relevant agencies to urgently address the concerns and appealed to TUTAG members to remain united and disciplined throughout the industrial action.

TUTAG’s primary demands are the payment of outstanding contractual remuneration and the respect for the agreed conditions and Scheme of Service.