The University of Ghana chapter of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UG-UTAG) has declared its unwavering commitment to proceed with a planned strike, despite the decision by Organised Labour to call off its nationwide protest against the ongoing illegal mining (galamsey) crisis. The UG-UTAG strike, which is scheduled to begin on Thursday, October 10, 2024, stems from deep frustration with the government’s lackluster response to the illegal mining issue that continues to plague the country.
According to UG-UTAG, the association has been closely monitoring the government’s efforts to address the galamsey menace, which has caused widespread destruction to the environment, including severe pollution of water bodies and the degradation of farmlands. However, the association believes that the measures put in place so far have been inadequate to bring a lasting solution to this critical national problem.
Despite the decision of Organised Labour to suspend its strike action, UG-UTAG insists that the galamsey crisis remains a matter of national urgency, requiring stronger, more immediate government intervention. The university teachers argue that their strike is a necessary step to draw attention to the issue, as they view the government’s current efforts as insufficient to halt the rampant illegal mining operations.
UG-UTAG’s decision comes at a time when the education sector is already grappling with various challenges, including financial constraints and inadequate resources. However, the association maintains that the impact of illegal mining on the nation’s future is so significant that it cannot stand by while the destruction continues. They hope that their action will compel the government to take more meaningful steps toward eliminating the galamsey threat.
This looming strike is expected to disrupt academic activities at the University of Ghana, putting further pressure on the government to address the concerns raised by UG-UTAG. The association’s leadership has emphasized that they are not opposed to dialogue with the government but insists that concrete actions must be taken to stop the galamsey operations, which are endangering lives and the environment.