The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has taken a strong position against illegal mining, deciding to proceed with its industrial action on Thursday, October 10, despite Organised Labour’s decision to suspend its nationwide strike after the government’s promise to tackle the galamsey issue.
In a referendum conducted on Wednesday, October 9, UTAG members overwhelmingly backed the strike, with 77.95% (2,153 votes) in favor, 21.98% (607 votes) opposing, and 0.07% (2 votes) abstaining.
As a result, the National Executive Council (NEC) of UTAG has declared an immediate and indefinite strike, effective Thursday, across all 15 UTAG branches.
UTAG has instructed its members to maintain the strike until the government officially announces a nationwide ban on all mining and prospecting activities in protected areas, such as forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies.
“Following the referendum, the NEC held an emergency meeting, invoking Article XIX, Clause 5 of the UTAG Constitution. In accordance with this mandate, the NEC has unanimously declared an immediate INDEFINITE STRIKE from October 10, 2024, across all 15 UTAG branches.
All members are instructed to adhere to this decision until the government formally declares a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting activities in protected areas, including forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies.”
UG-UTAG President, Prof. Ransford Gyampo, stressed the seriousness of the situation and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to taking a firm stand against galamsey, which has had a devastating impact on Ghana’s water bodies and forests.
