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University of Ghana unions oppose plans to privatise campus security
•2 min read•1 source
The Coalition of Joint Unions at the University of Ghana has formally registered its strong opposition to a proposal by the university's management to privatise security services across its campuses. The coalition, which represents a diverse group of staff unions, argues that outsourcing security to private firms would fundamentally compromise the safety and well-being of students, staff, and the wider university community. The unions maintain that internal security personnel possess a unique understanding of the campus environment that external contractors may not be able to replicate.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Benjamin Nkumsah, the chairman of the University of Ghana chapter of the Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU), highlighted that campus security is a sensitive and specialised function that should remain under direct university control. He emphasised that the unions are prepared to resist any attempts to outsource these services, viewing the move as a potential threat to the stability and established safety protocols of the institution. The coalition has vowed to use all legitimate means to ensure the privatisation plan does not proceed.
Beyond the privatisation dispute, the coalition is also raising urgent concerns regarding the non-payment of union dues. The leadership claims that the university management has failed to remit outstanding dues for nearly five months, a situation they say is severely hampering their ability to function and support their members. This financial bottleneck has added a layer of friction to the relationship between the staff and the administration, with the unions calling for the immediate settlement of these arrears to ensure labour peace.
The standoff reflects broader tensions within the University of Ghana regarding administrative reforms and financial management. As the unions continue their resistance, the university management faces mounting pressure to address both the security strategy and the backlog of statutory payments. The resolution of these issues will be critical for maintaining institutional harmony and ensuring that the campus remains a secure and functional environment for academic activities.
