Govt commends UTAG decision

The government has commended the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) for its decision to return to the lecture halls in response to calls from various sectors of society.

“The reason given for their return makes their decision even nobler. The fact that they have put the welfare of Ghana especially university students ahead of their grievances is an act worthy of emulation,” a statement signed by the Minister of Information and Media Relations, Mr Mahama Ayariga, said.

The university lecturers withdrew all teaching services in all public universities on April 2, 2013 to back their demand for immediate payment of all salary arrears owed its members since 2012.

But after two weeks of laying down their tools, the teachers have decided to return to the classroom as students in the various public universities prepare to write their examinations.

The decision appears to have won the heart of the government, which, in lauding the UTAG gesture, gave an assurance in the statement that “we remain resolute in our desire to provide the best working conditions for all Ghanaian workers. We would continue with our engagement to find a lasting solution to all the issues that have been raised.”

“Government remains committed to building an atmosphere of trust with the various worker unions,” it said.

It urged all other unions who were yet to return to their work stations to emulate the example set by UTAG.