The National Labour Commission (NLC) has directed the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) and Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) to continue discussions and finalize negotiations regarding the Conditions of Service (CoS) for the University Teachers Association of Ghana until December 21, 2023.
The decision was made on Thursday, November 23, 2023, after the NLC gave UTAG and FWSC a week to negotiate on the CoS, where no clear resolution of the issue was determined.
Speaking to UniversNews, the national president of UTAG, Prof. Mahamoud Akudugu explained the reason for the extension.
“The NLC on 23rd November 2023 directed UTAG and FWSC to further engage to complete negotiations on UTAG’s Conditions of Servic. The extension was granted in view of the progress made during the earlier one (1) week directive by the NLC. The Parties are expected to conclude negotiations within the period of extension and report to the Commission on 21st December 2023.”
Prof. Akudugu called on FWSC, who are acting on behalf of the government to act in good faith since the Association cannot negotiate in perpetuity.
“UTAG reiterated its utmost respect to the NLC and its directives but we cannot negotiate in perpetuity. Thus, the Association called on the Employer to act in good faith to ensure that the negotiations are concluded within the time given by the NLC.”
He added that the Association would have no option other than to embark on an industrial strike should the negotiation within the time frame given by NLC fall through.
“If no agreement is reached within the period, UTAG will be left with no option than to withdraw from the negotiations and embark on an industrial action.”
In a press statement on October 27, 2023, UTAG had declared its plan to suspend all academic activities if the government does not engage in negotiations regarding their Conditions of Service within a 21-day ultimatum.
In turn, the NLC and the FWSC held a meeting with UTAG to negotiate over their requests, hence leading to current developments.
–
Story by: Frimpong Collins | univers.ug.edu.gh
