The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has indicated it vehemently opposes the passage of the Public University Bill, 2020 (PUB) and has called on the govt to withdraw it.
UTAG has disclosed that the bill is perilous, regressive, unnecessary, and in breach of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, February 6, UTAG criticised the government for failing to consult them and other key stakeholders in the education sector before drafting the bill.
Expressing their dissatisfaction, the association urged the government to rethink its strategy and initiate constructive discussions with UTAG and other pertinent stakeholders.
“UTAG vehemently opposes the passage of the PUB in its current form and demands its immediate withdrawal from Parliament.”
“The disregard for consultation with UTAG, coupled with the alarming disregard for the concerns of the university community, demonstrates a lack of respect for the principles of shared governance and academic freedom,” an excerpt of the UTAG statement said.
About the bill
The Bill, which was first introduced in 2020, when passed, will give the government power to appoint the majority of members of the University Council, control the finances of the university, and determine the allocation of funds.
The Bill also gives the President the power to dissolve the University Council.
In the face of mounting public backlash and strong opposition, the government withdrew the bill to engage stakeholders, however, UTAG maintains that such engagements did not occur before the bill was reintroduced.
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Below is the full press release on the matter
Press Statement.
For Immediate Release.
Withdrawal of Public Universities (PUB) Bill from Parliament
The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) expresses our profound dismay upon learning that the government has re-submitted the rejected Public Universities Bill (PUB) to Parliament for consideration in the 8th session.
With deep concern, we observe the government’s persistence in pushing through this controversial bill despite widespread rejection from the university community and the higher education environment. We are particularly dismayed by the lack of consultation or engagement with UTAG, the primary stakeholders and beneficiaries of such legislation.
UTAG vehemently opposes the passage of the PUB in its current form and demands its immediate withdrawal from Parliament. The disregard for consultation with UTAG, coupled with the alarming disregard for the concerns of the university community, demonstrates a lack of respect for the principles of shared governance and academic freedom.
As stakeholders committed to advancing higher education in Ghana, we urge the government to reconsider its approach and engage in meaningful dialogue with UTAG and other relevant stakeholders, including TUTAG. The future of our public universities and the quality of higher education in Ghana depend on collaborative efforts that respect the voices and expertise of all stakeholders.
UTAG stands firm in its commitment to safeguarding the autonomy and integrity of our public universities, and we will continue to advocate for policies that uphold the values of academic freedom, institutional autonomy, and quality education for all.
END
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