The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has declared an indefinite strike, effective October 10, 2024, following an overwhelming vote in favour of industrial action to support a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting activities in ecologically sensitive areas.

The decision, backed by 77.95% of UTAG members across 15 branches, underscores the association’s firm stance on protecting the environment from destructive mining practices.

In a referendum organised by UTAG’s National Executive Council (NEC), 2,153 out of 2,762 members voted “Yes” in support of the strike, calling for an immediate halt to mining in forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies.

Only 607 members opposed the strike, with just two abstaining. This outcome, described by NEC as “a decisive mandate,” has set the stage for UTAG’s indefinite industrial action across all its branches.

“An Overwhelming Commitment to Protect Our Environment”

In a statement released by the NEC, the association highlighted its members’ strong resolve to safeguard the environment.

“This decisive outcome reflects the unwavering commitment of UTAG members to protect our environment and livelihoods from the destructive impact of mining activities in ecologically sensitive areas such as forest reserves, farms, and water bodies,” the NEC said.

The referendum and subsequent strike come amid growing concerns over the impact of illegal mining activities, popularly known as “galamsey,” which have devastated forest reserves, rivers, and farmlands across the country.

UTAG’s members are demanding urgent action from the government, insisting that a nationwide ban on mining is necessary to preserve the country’s natural resources and ensure the sustainability of local communities.

UTAG Invokes Constitutional Mandate for Industrial Action

Following the referendum, the NEC held an emergency meeting, where it unanimously agreed to invoke Article XIX, Clause 5 of the UTAG Constitution, which empowers the council to declare a strike in situations of national importance.

“In line with this constitutional mandate, NEC has unanimously declared an immediate INDEFINITE STRIKE from the 10th of October 2024 across all 15 UTAG branches,” the NEC declared.

UTAG is demanding that the government formally announce a nationwide ban on all mining and prospecting activities in protected areas, including forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies. Until the ban is instituted, all UTAG members have been directed to comply with the strike order.

“This Is a Critical National Cause”

In their statement, UTAG emphasised the importance of the strike, calling it a “critical national cause.” The association called on all members to stand firm in their commitment to the environment.

“Thank you for your steadfast support in this critical national cause,” the NEC stated.

This move by UTAG adds significant pressure on the government, which has been grappling with widespread public discontent over the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities.

UTAG’s decision to take industrial action reflects the growing urgency for comprehensive measures to address the galamsey menace.