The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has suspended its strike action against illegal mining (galamsey), effective Tuesday, 29th October 2024.
UTAG initiated the industrial action on 10th October 2024 to support a nationwide ban on prospecting for gold and other minerals in forest reserves, farms, and water bodies. UTAG described the strike as part of their civic responsibility. “As scholars and educators, we believe it is our responsibility to ensure that future generations of Ghana inherit a sustainable and healthy environment.”
According to UTAG, beyond their demand for the government to ban mining and prospecting in forest reserves, farms, and water bodies, they also called for the speedy revocation of the Environmental Protection Regulation 2022 (Mining in Forest Reserves, L.I. 2462). In addition, they requested the government to expand the scope of its task force to include forest reserves in the fight against illegal mining.
In a press statement, UTAG added that the development of a pact for candidates of the 2024 Presidential Election, aimed at securing their commitment to fighting illegal mining activities, and discussions with various stakeholders regarding the signing of the pact are underway.
“Our strike action has significantly demonstrated our commitment, throughout the country, to protecting and sustaining the environment for present and future generations. We have earned the admiration and confidence of the Ghanaian people, who trust us to always stand up for the welfare of our country.”
UTAG, after thorough deliberation, has directed the National Executive Council (NEC) to suspend the strike action effective Tuesday, 29th October 2024, while seeking members’ affirmation or otherwise of the directive.