UTAG Strike as NPP was Accused of Orchestrating ‘Rebel’ Faction by Prof. Gyampo

The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) remains steadfast in its indefinite strike, despite opposition from a group calling itself the “Silent Majority of UTAG Members.”

This faction, consisting of 57 individuals, issued an ultimatum to the UTAG National Executive Committee (NEC) demanding that the strike be called off. They argue that the initial vote across 15 campuses supported a general labor strike, not a separate UTAG action.

However, Professor Ransford Gyampo, President of the University of Ghana chapter of UTAG, has dismissed these claims.Gyampo revealed that of the 57 individuals backing the petition, 36 are not university lecturers, and many others have publicly disclaimed their involvement.

He stressed that this small group cannot claim to represent the majority of nearly 3,000 professors who voted in favor of the strike. UTAG’s action is a protest against illegal mining (galamsey), which they believe is damaging not only the environment but also the educational sector.

The UTAG leadership has decided not to engage in public disputes with the dissenters, some of whom are colleagues, but instead plans private discussions to explain the reasons behind their actions.

Gyampo emphasized that UTAG’s strike, initiated to protect academic integrity and the environment, will remain in effect until the NEC decides otherwise. He also criticized the involvement of external groups like the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and CLOSSAG, whose behavior he deemed problematic.