Relief for students as GAUA and TUSAAG call off strike; declare return to work on Monday

Administrative work in public universities and technical universities is set to resume fully on Monday, October 19, 2026 after two major staff unions suspended their two-month strike.

The Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) and the Technical University Senior Administrators Association of Ghana (TUSAAG) announced an indefinite suspension of their industrial action on Thursday following what they described as significant progress in talks with government.

The strike, which started on August 10, 2026, brought administrative processes to a halt, hence affecting admissions, results processing, transcript requests and other essential services for students.

In a joint decision, the two associations said government has addressed about 80 percent of their grievances after a series of engagements with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Finance.

Key among the issues were the non-payment of market premiums, wrongful placement on the Single Spine Pay Policy, their 40 percent retirement rollover and research allowances.

GAUA President, Rev. Karikari Amoah, said the decision to suspend was based on a thorough evaluation of the progress made.

"Before the strike, we raised issues about market premium, wrongful placement in the Single Spine Pay Policy, extension of the retirement rollover and research payment. After thorough evaluation, we came to the consensus that about 80 percent of our grievances have been met," he said.

He added that while some outstanding issues remain, members have been directed to return to post on Monday while negotiations continue.

TUSAAG President, Stanley Abopaam, also confirmed the suspension, commending government for showing good faith.

"From the intervention of the Minister of Education and the Minister of Finance, who have been working in good faith, we have decided to suspend the strike whilst we continue to engage on the remaining items," Mr. Abopaam said.

He expressed optimism that the remaining concerns would be resolved through continuous dialogue.

With the suspension, normalcy is expected to return to campuses across the country next week.