The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has made the decision to close its primary and secondary schools in response to an ongoing labor dispute involving various unions within the education sector.
Effective from Tuesday, January 30, 2024, until further notice, this closure follows a declaration of industrial action by the Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union of the Trades Union Congress (TEWU-TUC), the Senior Staff Association – Universities of Ghana (SSA-UG), and the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA).
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A statement issued by the University Registrar, A. K. Boateng, officially communicated the decision to shut down the KNUST Basic Schools to both the university community and the public.
This measure is a proactive step taken by the university administration in light of the ongoing labor dispute, aimed at safeguarding the safety and well-being of students and staff.
The strike initiated by the aforementioned unions has caused uncertainty within the education sector, with demands ranging from improved working conditions to salary adjustments.
The impact of the strike has been felt across various educational institutions, including universities and primary/secondary schools.
The closure of the KNUST Basic Schools adds to the growing list of educational institutions affected by the labor dispute, raising concerns about the continuity of academic activities and student welfare.
Dr. Daniel Norris Bekoe, the University Relations Officer of KNUST, highlighted the adverse effects of the TEWU-TUC and GAUA unions’ strike on the university’s operations. He stressed the urgency of engaging relevant stakeholders to address the unions’ grievances and seek mutually beneficial solutions.
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Such proactive measures are crucial for maintaining the smooth functioning of the university and creating a conducive environment for all stakeholders.
During the closure period, parents and guardians may need to make alternative arrangements for their children’s education.
As the standoff between the unions and government persists, stakeholders remain optimistic for a prompt resolution to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of quality education across Ghana’s educational institutions.
