UTAG Issues 14-Day Ultimatum for Removal of GTEC Leadership
University teachers warn of possible industrial unrest over alleged governance failures at GTEC
- UTAG gives President Mahama a 14-day ultimatum to respond to its petition on GTEC leadership.
- Association accuses GTEC officials of overreach and undermining university autonomy.
- Union warns of possible industrial action if concerns are not addressed.
The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has given President John Dramani Mahama a 14-day deadline to respond to its petition demanding the removal of top officials at the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), warning that failure to act could result in industrial unrest.
At a press conference on Monday, UTAG National President, Vera Ogeh Fiador, expressed concern over the Presidency’s silence since the petition was submitted on February 17, 2026.
“It has been nearly two months, and we have not even received an acknowledgement,” she stated, adding that the association is uncertain whether the petition has reached the President or has been ignored.
Call for Leadership Changes
UTAG is demanding the removal of GTEC Director-General, Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, and his deputy, Augustine Ocloo.
The association accuses the leadership of governance failures and overstepping their regulatory authority.
According to UTAG, GTEC has adopted what it describes as a “command and control” approach that threatens the autonomy of public universities and undermines academic freedom.
“These governance failures now weaken university autonomy, staff welfare, and the overall stability of the tertiary education system,” Prof. Fiador said.
Concerns Over Regulatory Overreach
UTAG argues that GTEC has gone beyond its mandate by issuing unilateral directives and interfering in decisions that should be handled by university councils and academic boards.
The association emphasized that its position is not against regulation but rather advocates for a more consultative and balanced approach in managing the sector.
“Globally, regulators set standards through consultation, not control institutions through directives,” UTAG noted.
Warning of Possible Industrial Action
The association cautioned that failure to address its concerns within the 14-day period could escalate tensions within the tertiary education sector.
UTAG maintains that the ultimatum is intended to prompt engagement from the Presidency, but warned that further action may be taken if the issues remain unresolved.
The development signals growing friction within Ghana’s higher education system, with potential implications for stability if dialogue is not initiated promptly.
