Ghana’s major academic unions — the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG), and the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG) — have jointly issued a stern ultimatum to the government over delays in disbursing the Book and Research Allowance (BRA).

In a strongly worded joint statement dated June 9, 2025, the three unions expressed growing frustration over the government’s failure to release the applicable exchange rate, which is required for the calculation and payment of the allowance. The delay, they say, is placing undue financial stress on lecturers and jeopardizing academic productivity across the country.

“The Book and Research Allowance is not a privilege — it is a statutory entitlement essential for academic work, research, and the professional development of our members,” the statement emphasized.

At a joint emergency meeting on June 8, UTAG, TUTAG, and CETAG unanimously resolved to give the government a final deadline of Thursday, June 13, 2025, to announce the official exchange rate and initiate disbursement. Failure to do so, they warned, will trigger a nationwide strike across all public universities and colleges.

The unions further insisted that the government must complete all payments no later than September 2025, warning that they would not accept any further extensions.

The statement — signed by the national presidents and general secretaries of all three associations — appealed to government officials, education stakeholders, and the general public to treat the issue with the urgency it deserves.

“We urge all stakeholders to act swiftly to avert a looming academic crisis,” it said.

The Book and Research Allowance plays a pivotal role in supporting scholarly work, publication of research, and enhancing teaching and learning outcomes. For years, the allowance has been a recurring point of contention between the government and academic unions, often resulting in industrial action when delays occur.

As the June 13 deadline approaches, tension is building on campuses across the country. The unions have made it clear that, without swift government action, the academic calendar could be severely disrupted.