Book, research allowances captured in budget - Dr Forson assures teacher unions
The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has assured tertiary education unions that the 2025 Budget fully provides for the payment of Book and Research allowances.
During a meeting yesterday with the leadership of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) of the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG) and the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG), he confirmed that disbursement processes had already started in collaboration with the Ministry of Education to ensure timely release of the funds.
The unions used the meeting to formally seek clarification on the status of the allowance.
Labour Relations Desk
During the engagement, the unions proposed the establishment of a dedicated Labour Relations Desk at the Ministry of Finance to improve dialogue and coordination on labour-related matters.
Dr Forson welcomed the proposal, describing it as a constructive step towards enhancing stakeholder engagement.
The meeting also reviewed ongoing payroll reforms, including an audit by the Auditor-General.
Preliminary findings reveal the presence of ghost names on the payroll, and the minister underscored the importance of addressing the issue to safeguard public resources.
Dr Forson also reaffirmed his commitment to fostering transparency, accountability, and equity in public sector compensation through continued collaboration with key stakeholders.
The National President of UTAG, Professor Mamudu Akudugu, on behalf of the unions, thanked the minister for hosting them for the frank discussions.
