The Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) has stated that its negotiations with the government to resolve outstanding grievances have not yielded significant progress after two months of engagement. According to GAUA's National General Secretary, Charles Jojo Aidoo, the association is currently engaging the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) but remains dissatisfied with the progress of the negotiations. The association had several grievances, including disparities in allowances and other conditions of service for university administrators.
GAUA declared its strike in August following the failure of negotiations over the payment of negotiated and approved allowances. The strike has disrupted administrative services at some public universities, including the University of Ghana and the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC). Students at the University of Ghana have faced difficulties with course registration, accommodation arrangements, and access to the university's online portal. The university has also put first-semester registration for the 2026/2027 academic year on hold due to the ongoing industrial action.
Mr. Aidoo acknowledged the impact of the strike on university operations but said members of the association are equally frustrated by the lack of progress in resolving their concerns. He explained that GAUA represents professionals working in various capacities within universities, including medical doctors, lawyers, chartered accountants, auditors, human resource professionals, and procurement specialists. The association has raised concerns about the conditions of service of its members for several years, with Mr. Aidoo noting that they have not had any conditions of service since 2008.
The association's grievances are not solely monetary, with Mr. Aidoo stating that the majority of them are not related to payment. GAUA is demanding action to address disparities in allowances and other conditions of service for university administrators. The strike has caused significant disruptions to university operations, with students and faculty members being affected.
Despite the lack of significant progress, Mr. Aidoo said the association believes further engagement with the FWSC could yield results. He expressed hope that by the end of the month, they should be able to make progress. The association is continuing to engage with the FWSC, with Mr. Aidoo indicating that they are still negotiating.
The Ghana Association of University Administrators has been advocating for improved conditions of service for its members for several years. The current strike is a result of the government's failure to address their concerns, with GAUA calling for a resolution to the issues. The association's members are professionals who play a crucial role in the administration of universities.
The strike by GAUA has significant implications for the academic calendar of universities. If the strike extends, it could lead to a collapse of the academic calendar, with students facing disruptions to their studies. The government has been urged to address the concerns of GAUA to prevent further disruptions to university operations.
Key points
- GAUA's negotiations with government have made no significant progress after two months.
- The strike has disrupted administrative services at some public universities.
- GAUA is demanding action to address disparities in allowances and other conditions of service for university administrators.
