Recurrent strikes threaten quality of education and academic calendars – Prof Bokpin

Ghanaian economist Professor Gofred Bokpin has expressed grave concerns over the recurring labour strikes in the country's education sector, warning that they are severely impacting the quality of education and academic calendars. Professor Bokpin, a Professor at the University of Ghana Business School, highlighted that over the past 15 to 20 years, Ghana has faced significant disruptions in the health and education sectors every two to three years, describing this as a major concern for a nation striving for sustained socio-economic development.

The professor emphasized that the lost instructional time in these strikes cannot be recuperated, even if disputes are eventually resolved through negotiations. He stressed that maintaining industrial harmony in education is crucial for developing human capital, enhancing labour quality, and supporting national development. Specifically, he expressed particular alarm regarding senior high schools under the Free Senior High School policy, where the double-track system and infrastructure limitations have already curtailed the time students spend in school.

Professor Bokpin cautioned that further disruptions pose a serious threat to the quality of education, arguing that students are not receiving the adequate tuition they require while the state bears their upkeep. He also questioned the adequacy of online learning as a replacement for traditional classroom teaching, particularly for students who return home after double-track arrangements.

The economist noted that universities are grappling with uncertainty over their academic calendars, with the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) announcing a postponement of its next academic year's reopening. He pointed out that while universities have managed to restore their academic schedules post-COVID-19, ongoing strikes are now adding further complications.

While acknowledging the legitimate demands of teachers, lecturers, and administrators, Professor Bokpin urged the government to prioritize industrial stability in the education sector. He stressed that strikes, despite sometimes leading to some concessions for workers, invariably result in a loss of teaching time and productivity that cannot be remedied.

Professor Bokpin also cautioned against prioritizing fiscal discipline over social priorities, advocating that government spending decisions must align with the country's development goals and the needs of its citizens. He urged the government to improve the management of labour relations to safeguard the academic calendar and ensure that students receive a quality education.