Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu has clarified that the government’s recent decision to halt post-retirement contracts for public servants will not affect academic institutions.
Addressing academic professionals at a press briefing on Saturday, April 12, the minister explained that the directive specifically targets general public service institutions.
He emphasized that academic institutions are exempt due to the specialised nature of their work.
“The policy does not affect universities and other academic institutions. Their work is unique, and we recognize the value of experience in education,” Mr. Iddrisu stated.
Following the announcement, students at the University of Ghana expressed varied opinions on the exemption.
“It’s a good idea. They should maintain the post-retired people because they are more experienced,” one student remarked.
Another student noted, “I don’t think it’s fair to other public service institutions. If a person is 60 or above, they should not be forced to retire—whether they’re in education or not.”
A third student commented, “I think academic professionals should be retained for some period so that newly employed teachers can benefit from their experience.”
Others, however, saw the exemption as a missed opportunity to address youth unemployment.
“Teachers should be exempted, yes—but there’s low employment in this country. If people retire at 60, more young people will have a chance to be employed,” a student argued.
