The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), demanding immediate action to address what it describes as persistent administrative lapses and undue interference in university governance.
At a press conference held on Monday, April 13, 2026, UTAG National President, Vera Fiador, outlined a series of concerns and proposals aimed at protecting the autonomy of public universities. She warned that the association would take further steps if its concerns are not addressed within the stipulated period.
“We are by this press statement serving notice that if appropriate actions are not taken to satisfactorily address within fourteen days of today, we shall, after further consultation with our rank and file, advise ourselves accordingly,” she stated.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Univers News, Prof. Fiador defended the Association’s decision to go public. She revealed that UTAG had initially pursued a more discreet approach, including submitting a petition to the Presidency out of respect for the office, but those efforts yielded no response.
“In the first instance, out of respect for the office of the President, we did not make our concerns known to the media. We wanted it dealt with in a structured manner,” Prof. Fiador explained. “But at this point, we have reason to believe the letter has not come to the attention of the President, which is rather bizarre. This is why we have taken this stance,” she revealed.
The Association is also calling for a complete overhaul of the current leadership at GTEC, citing what it describes as a failure in regulatory oversight. Prof. Fiador insisted that the 14-day deadline provides enough time for decisive action, including the possibility of leadership changes.
“The current leadership is not delivering what we believe should be in terms of regulatory oversight,” she stated.
“We are not recommending a specific entity to take over, but we want change. We believe the President is well-placed to offer that, and 14 days is long enough to act.”
A core concern raised by UTAG is the perceived overreach by GTEC into the internal affairs of public universities. The Association maintains that University Councils are autonomous bodies and should be allowed to function without external interference.
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Vanessa Katrin Ohene | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
