Vice Chancellors Ghana (VCG) has appealed to the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) to suspend its ongoing strike and return to work, warning that the industrial action could disrupt university operations and threaten the academic calendar.

In a statement issued on Friday, October 9, VCG said it recognised the concerns of university administrators over remuneration and conditions of service but urged the association to allow negotiations with the government to continue while normal administrative activities resume.

The association expressed concern that the prolonged strike could undermine efforts by public universities to restore and stabilise their academic schedules following disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to VCG, it has engaged the Minister for Education and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) in an effort to resolve the outstanding issues. It added that the FWSC had assured it of its commitment to working towards a settlement.

“In view of the ongoing engagements and the assurances received, VCG respectfully appeals to GAUA to consider resuming work while the parties pursue the processes necessary to bring outstanding matters to an amicable conclusion,” the statement said.

VCG called on all parties to remain committed to dialogue and expedite negotiations to reach a fair and lasting agreement.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting efforts to protect the welfare of university staff while ensuring that public universities continue to function effectively.

“We are confident that, through good faith, mutual respect and constructive engagement, an acceptable resolution can be reached in the interest of university staff, students and the entire higher education system,” the statement added.

GAUA’s ongoing industrial action has disrupted administrative activities at public universities, with the association maintaining that its concerns remain unresolved despite engagements with the government and the FWSC.

The dispute has raised concerns about the continuity of university administration and the stability of the academic calendar, as pressure mounts for both sides to reach a negotiated settlement and restore normal operations.


EA