UCC-UTAG demands clearer boundaries for GTEC’s regulatory role

The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has urged the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to stay within its defined regulatory role and cease interfering in university affairs. UTAG spokesperson, Professor Philip Ebow Bondzi-Simpson, stated that GTEC has often overstepped its boundaries, undermining academic freedom and disrupting university activities.

Prof Bondzi-Simpson explained that GTEC's mandate is limited to being a regulator, advisor, coordinator, and accreditor, and the Commission has failed to effectively execute these core functions. He argued that if GTEC focuses on its defined roles, it would reduce interference in areas outside its mandate, thereby promoting academic freedom.

Other concerns raised include the GTEC's membership on university councils, which UTAG believes violates the law as regulators should not participate in decision-making bodies. UTAG also emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between tertiary institutions and GTEC, urging universities to uphold academic freedom responsibly while adhering to sound governance and ethical conduct.