The Tertiary Education Workers Union of Ghana (TEWU-GH) has declared an indefinite nationwide strike effective today, in protest against what it describes as the government’s unjust and undemocratic recognition of a rival union, TEWU-TUC, as the representative body on the governing councils of public universities.

The announcement was made at a press conference in Kumasi by TEWU-GH National Chairman, Sulemana Abdul-Rahman, who said the strike action follows the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to the government on June 24, 2025.

The union had demanded the immediate withdrawal of TEWU-TUC’s appointment to the councils, but received no response.

Mr. Sulemana condemned the government's decision as “egregious and unjustifiable,” arguing that TEWU-GH commands the majority membership in Ghana’s public universities and should rightfully hold representation on governing councils.

“This recognition of a minority union undermines fairness, transparency, and the democratic principles upon which labour representation is built,” he stated.

TEWU-GH is demanding that the Minister of Labour and Employment and the Minister of Education direct the Chief Labour Officer to conduct a verification process to determine which union holds majority representation, in accordance with the Labour Regulations, 2007 (L.I. 1833).

The union also called for the establishment of a transparent and democratic mechanism for determining union representation in public tertiary institutions moving forward.

While reaffirming TEWU-GH’s openness to dialogue, Mr. Sulemana stressed that the union would not compromise on its core demands, declaring the strike action as a necessary step to protect the rights and interests of its members.

He urged all TEWU-GH members across the country to fully participate in the industrial action and called on other labour unions, stakeholders, and the general public to support their cause.

“This is not just about TEWU-GH—it’s about preserving democratic practices and ensuring industrial peace in our public universities,” he added.