The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has called for the immediate removal of the Director-General and Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), citing what it describes as persistent regulatory overreach and governance failures within the tertiary education sector.
At a press conference, UTAG disclosed that it had earlier submitted a petition to the Presidency on February 17, 2026, raising concerns about the conduct of GTEC’s leadership. However, the Association says it has yet to receive any acknowledgment from the government, prompting it to go public with its demands.
According to UTAG, the current leadership of GTEC has deviated from its core regulatory mandate by adopting what it described as a “command-and-control” approach, rather than a consultative and facilitative one. The Association argued that such actions are undermining university autonomy, academic freedom, and staff welfare across public universities.
UTAG outlined several instances of alleged interference, including the imposition of approval requirements on appointments and post-retirement contracts, as well as the overriding of decisions made by university governing councils. It also accused GTEC of using threats such as withdrawal of accreditation and funding as coercive tools.
The Association further criticised directives issued by GTEC in late 2025 regarding post-retirement contracts and salary procedures, stating that they contradict existing conditions of service and create administrative bottlenecks that disrupt academic work.
“These directives have introduced uncertainty, strained labour relations, and exposed institutions to legal and financial risks,” UTAG noted.
The group also cited what it described as systemic harm to the sector, including a recent episode involving the University of Cape Coast, where key services were withdrawn and later restored. UTAG warned that such actions could damage Ghana’s reputation in the global academic community and affect international partnerships.
In addition to demanding the removal of GTEC’s top leadership, UTAG is calling for the urgent operationalisation of the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020 (Act 1023), through a clear legislative framework that ensures transparency, consultation, and respect for institutional autonomy.
The Association also wants the withdrawal of specific GTEC circulars issued in September and October 2025, protection of existing post-retirement contracts, and inclusion in policy consultations affecting the sector.
UTAG has given the government a 14-day ultimatum to address its concerns, warning that failure to act could lead to further action after consultations with its members.
Despite the tensions, UTAG reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue and constructive engagement in the interest of strengthening Ghana’s tertiary education system.
Story By: Eric Boateng
