It is no longer news that the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) is on an indefinite strike. This move is intended to pressure the government to take action against the illegal mining activities rampant in the country, which are causing severe harm to some Ghanaian citizens and posing a significant threat to future generations.
Many universities have received official communiqués from their management, informing students that classes will not be in session until further notice due to the strike. This announcement has drawn mixed reactions from the student body. While some students were relieved by the break in academic activities, others expressed concern, fearing the disruption might negatively impact the academic calendar. Some worry that this could lead to an extension of the semester or cause delays in graduation.
In addressing these concerns, the UTAG chairman remarked, "When doctors go on strike, people die. So, when lecturers go on strike, students won’t die. We will return, adjust the academic calendar, and teach them."
Despite the academic setbacks, it is disheartening to witness that some students are welcoming this strike for less academic reasons. Instead of using the time productively, a worrying number of students seem more focused on indulging in social and personal pleasures. Reports from some campuses indicate that many students, particularly girls, have left their hostels and are staying with their boyfriends without the knowledge of their parents. They have reportedly been misleading their families, falsely claiming that classes are still in session and that their universities are not affected by the strike.
A closer investigation reveals that some lecturers had already distributed learning materials to students before the strike began. These materials are intended to be used for independent study during the break, allowing students to continue their learning despite the strike. Unfortunately, rather than taking advantage of these resources, many students seem more preoccupied with distractions and indulgences, neglecting their academic responsibilities.
This is a call to parents: UTAG is on strike, and if your child tells you that their lecturer is still teaching, be aware that this is likely untrue. Should a lecturer indeed be conducting lessons during this period, they would be violating the directives of the association. Such behavior should be reported and questioned.
In times like this, the focus should be on how students can make productive use of their time outside the classroom, ensuring they do not fall behind academically. While the strike presents challenges, it also offers an opportunity for students to engage in self-study and use the provided materials to stay ahead. But the current trend of neglect and pleasure-seeking will only serve to create further academic setbacks in the future.
The UTAG strike is a serious matter with deep national implications, and it is crucial that students, parents, and lecturers all remain mindful of its impact on education. Students should use this time wisely and prepare for the inevitable resumption of academic activities.
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