The Technical University Senior Administrators Association of Ghana (TUSAAG) has declared a nationwide strike, effective tomorrow, 27th September 2024.
According to TUSAAG, the strike is being undertaken in protest of the government’s failure to meet key obligations outlined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which governs the terms and conditions of employment for senior staff in technical universities.
TUSAAG expressed deep frustration over what they describe as the government’s persistent disregard for the provisions of the CBA, particularly concerning the implementation of revised allowances for senior members of public universities.
The Association indicated that these allowances, which were negotiated and agreed upon under the CBA, remain unpaid despite multiple engagements and assurances from the government.
“This declaration follows our earlier letter (Ref. No TTD/8/9/241), which indicated our intention to initiate industrial action due to the government’s refusal to honour agreements made in July 2024, following the directive from the Ministry of Finance in May 2024”.
The Technical University Senior Administrators Association of Ghana (TUSAAG)
TUSAAG further emphasized that the government’s continued inaction constitutes a clear violation of their rights and reflects an unacceptable disregard for the Association’s concerns.
The Association argued that this neglect not only undermines the welfare of senior administrators but also demonstrates a broader lack of respect and attention toward the critical role they play within the public university system.
Furthermore, TUSAAG indicated that the government has engaged in systemic discrimination against its members concerning the payment of common allowances.
The Association highlighted that while other unions representing similar categories of workers in public universities have received timely payments and necessary adjustments to their allowances, TUSAAG members have been overlooked.
This disparity, they argue, not only creates a sense of inequality among staff but also exacerbates existing grievances within the association.
TUSAAG believes that such favoritism undermines morale and solidarity among university administrators, further fueling their determination to fight for equitable treatment and recognition of their contributions to the academic community.
TUSAAG’s Stance on Fairness and Equity
Furthermore, TUSAAG noted that it can no longer tolerate working conditions that undermine the principles of fairness and equity.
The Association emphasized that such an environment is detrimental not only to the morale of its members but also to the overall effectiveness of administrative operations within public universities.
“Consequently, and effective tomorrow, TUSAAG will withdraw all services across all technical universities in Ghana until our demands are met. The following actions are required: 1. Payment of the agreed upon rates for vehicle maintenance, off-campus allowances, fuel, utility, and sanitation/security allowances without further delay…”
The Technical University Senior Administrators Association of Ghana (TUSAAG)
TUSAAG further demanded a formal acknowledgment of its grievances from the government, along with a clear commitment to uphold the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
The Association stressed that such recognition is essential for rebuilding trust and ensuring a constructive dialogue moving forward.
TUSAAG believes that a sincere acknowledgment of their concerns, paired with a commitment to honoring the CBA, is crucial for fostering a collaborative relationship between the association and the government, ultimately benefiting the entire public university system.
The Association also reiterated that it has exhausted all avenues for further discussion and is now demanding the full implementation of all provisions outlined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
TUSAAG emphasized that their patience has run thin, and any further delays in meeting these commitments are no longer acceptable.
According to TUSAAG, it is resolute in its stance that the rights and welfare of its members must be prioritized and that immediate action is necessary to rectify the ongoing situation.
Accordingly, the Association expressed that it stands united and unwavering in its commitment to advocate for the respect and recognition it rightfully deserves.
In light of this, TUSAAG urged the government to take immediate action to address and fulfill its demands.
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