The Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG) continues its indefinite strike, maintaining its stance despite government pleas to return to work.
During a recent meeting, the government urged the union to resume duties while efforts are made to address their demands.
In response, the National Chairman of the Association, George Ansong, told UniversNews that no decision would be made until the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) convenes to discuss the government’s request.
“The government is pleading that we return to work while they take steps to address our issues. We said, fine, we hear them, but we will consult our National Executive Council and relay their decision. If they accept that we should call off the strike, we will. If not, we will inform the government accordingly. We are yet to call the meeting because as universities, we have suffered. So, we need to organise a meeting for all NEC members to discuss.”
Mr. Ansong emphasized that the union has signed agreements with the government in the past, but these have not been honoured, leading to frustration and the eventual strike.
He noted that while he has personal views, the final decision rests with the NEC, which will meet next week to deliberate.
“As an individual, I have my views, but I cannot make a personal decision as the National Executive Council Chairman. I do not have that power. We will meet, discuss, and whatever the majority decides is what I will implement.”
He further urged stakeholders to shift their focus to the government, arguing that public pressure is often unfairly directed at the union rather than at the government for failing to fulfil its commitments.
“Put pressure on the government. It always seems like we, the affected, are the ones under pressure. If the government did what it was supposed to do, we wouldn’t have gone on strike. But the question is always, ‘Why are you staying at home? The strike is affecting people; don’t you care?’ What about the government? We have suffered through numerous promises and even signed agreements.”
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Story by: Akpalu Edmond Deladem | univers.ug.edu.gh
