By: Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu has praised the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) for maintaining a firm position in the national campaign against galamsey.
His commendation comes at a time when UTAG is holding crucial deliberations on whether to embark on strike action, following the expiration of a three-month ultimatum issued to the government in July to take decisive steps to address the menace.
Speaking at the 22nd Biennial Congress of UTAG in Aburi, the Education Minister underscored the importance of the lecturers’ advocacy and urged them to remain resolute.
“Professor Chair, I cannot assume my seat once again without praising you, UTAG, for your principled position on galamsey. We will continue to advocate for the good of our country. We need quality air to breathe, and we need quality water to drink,” he said.
He further encouraged the association not to relent: “Don’t waver in demanding that right be done and that the country succeed in our fight against galamsey.”
In July this year, UTAG’s National Executive Council (NEC) issued a strongly worded statement expressing disappointment at what it described as government’s “lack of urgency” in addressing the illegal mining crisis.
The statement signed by then UTAG National President Prof. Mamudu Akudugu and National Secretary Prof. Eliasu Mumuni after an emergency NEC meeting on July 17, warned of possible industrial action if authorities failed to act.
According to UTAG, illegal mining continues to devastate farmlands, poison rivers, and destroy livelihoods, with lecturers warning that the long-term social and economic costs far outweigh any short-term gains.
