The University for Development Studies (UDS) branches of the Senior Staff Association, the Federation of Senior Staff Associations, and the Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU) under the Trades Union Congress (TUC) have joined their counterparts in declaring an indefinite strike to protest what they describe as poor conditions of service.
The action, which took effect today, follows months of complaints by members who say their agreed conditions of service have not been honoured.
Union leaders argue that despite clear provisions for overtime compensation, staff have consistently been denied the payments they are entitled to, leaving many frustrated and financially strained.
According to the Northern Regional Chairperson of the Senior Staff Association of Ghana, Faidatu Alhassan, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission has failed to address the concerns of workers, effectively shortchanging them.
She noted that instead of paying the approved overtime allowances, some universities have introduced call allowances that are far below the stipulated rates.
The union maintains that this arrangement undermines their collective agreement and does not reflect the actual hours staff dedicate to their duties.
Beyond the issue of allowances, members are also worried about deductions made from their salaries for Tier 2 pension contributions. Madam Faidatu, revealed that contributions covering four to five months have been deducted but have not been transferred to the designated fund managers.
She expressed fears that the delay could jeopardize workers’ retirement benefits, potentially leaving many without access to their full pensions when they eventually retire.
The Northern Regional Chairman of TEWU, Asanpana Emmanuel, said the strike is intended to compel authorities to act swiftly and responsibly. While the union remains open to dialogue and negotiations, he stressed that members will not return to work until their demands are addressed.
He called on the government to immediately release the outstanding funds and ensure full compliance with the agreed conditions of service to restore confidence among workers and prevent further disruptions to university operations.
Story by Baba Kamil Mohammed Northern Region
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