UG faces closer as lecturers intensifies strike

University of Ghana faces imminent closure as lecturers continue their strike almost two weeks into a new academic year.

The University of Ghana and a few other public universities already in session are facing an imminent closure if lecturers continue their strike into the 21st day of the new academic year.

By statute, the University of Ghana in particular cannot operate beyond 21 days of non-academic work.

The University reopened two weeks ago without the lecturers who are on strike to protest against the non-payment of book and research allowance.

Deputy Education Minister in charge of Tertiary, Samuel Okudjato Ablakwa, says government is gravely concerned that the universities might be forced to shut down.

He said he is in constant talks with the leadership of the University Teachers Association (UTAG) to rescind their decision and return to the negotiating table with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission.

Okudzeto Ablakwa noted that government is willing to pay the book and research allowances if the lecturers calls off the strike.