The Technical University Teachers’ Association of Ghana (TUTAG) convened its 51st Delegates Congress at Ho Technical University on Monday, March, 9 marking a pivotal transition in the leadership of the Association.
The congress formally handed over the National Secretariat to Ho Technical University and ushered in a newly elected national executive team.
Prof. Deodat Emilson Adenutsi has assumed office as the new National President, alongside Dr. Francis Fonyee Nutsugah as Vice President, Mr. Daniel Komla Tsorhe as General Secretary, Mr. Francois Mahama as National Organizer, and Ms. Patience Aku Dedume Glauh-Jeh as National Gender Officer.
Addressing the congress, Prof. Adenutsi emphasised the leadership’s commitment to advancing the welfare of members and fostering the development of technical education in Ghana. “We pledge to serve with transparency, diligence, and an unwavering focus on the growth of Technical Universities and the well-being of our members,” he said.
Calls for immediate approval of IGF conditions of service
A central issue discussed was the prolonged delay in the approval of Internally Generated Funds (IGF) Conditions of Service by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC).
According to a press communique issued after the congress, delegates expressed deep concern over the inaction, which has persisted for over a year, describing it as “undue and unjustified.”
“This delay has created unnecessary uncertainty and is affecting motivation and productivity across campuses,” said Mr. Daniel Komla Tsorhe, the newly sworn-in General Secretary. “We call on the FWSC to expedite the review process and grant the necessary approval without further delay.”
Post-Retirement Contracts and Roll-Over Policy under scrutiny
The Congress also highlighted challenges surrounding post-retirement contracts and the Roll-Over Policy, which were designed to retain experienced faculty and ensure academic continuity.
Delegates condemned instances of delayed payments to members on post-retirement contracts and objected to unilateral changes proposed by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC).
“Altering negotiated terms without consultation is unacceptable,” Mr. Tsorhe noted. “We urge all relevant agencies to resolve these matters urgently to prevent escalation across campuses.”
Expired Government-Sponsored conditions of service
With the Government of Ghana-sponsored Conditions of Service for public universities having expired, TUTAG, in collaboration with the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), has submitted proposals to guide negotiations for a new agreement.
“Negotiations must be approached with seriousness, good faith, and urgency,” said Dr. Francis Fonyee Nutsugah. “We expect the process to be concluded by the end of June 2026 to maintain industrial harmony and stability within the tertiary education sector.”
Environmental advocacy and galamsey
TUTAG delegates reaffirmed the Association’s stance against illegal mining (galamsey), citing its devastating effects on Ghana’s water bodies, farmlands, and public health.
“As stakeholders in national development, we are committed to supporting lawful and sustainable measures to eradicate galamsey,” stated Ms. Patience Aku Dedume Glauh-Jeh, National Gender Officer.
“We will continue to monitor developments and take lawful action where necessary to defend our environment and public health,” she added.
Middle East tensions and economic concerns
The congress also considered global developments, expressing concern over escalating conflicts in the Middle East and potential impacts on Ghana’s economy.
Delegates urged the government to take proactive diplomatic, fiscal, and energy-sector measures to protect citizens abroad and mitigate economic risks from fluctuating crude oil prices.
The 51st Delegates Congress concluded with a call for unity among members and a strong endorsement of the new leadership.
Delegates expressed gratitude to the outgoing National Executives for their dedicated service and to Ho Technical University for hosting the event.
“Let us all support this leadership as we work together for the progress of TUTAG and the advancement of Technical University education in Ghana,” Prof. Adenutsi said, summarising the collective resolve of the congress.
The congress underscored TUTAG’s commitment to advocating for members’ welfare, fostering institutional stability, and contributing to national development through both policy engagement and social responsibility initiatives.
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