The Teachers and Educational Workers’ Union (TEWU) and the Federation of Universities Senior Staff Association of Ghana (FUSSAG) have threatened a series of demonstrations against the management of the University of Ghana over plans to move staff onto the Controller and Accountant-General’s payroll system.

The unions say they are strongly opposed to the move, arguing that it could result in higher salary deductions for their members. According to the union leadership, staff currently have about three percent deducted, but under the Controller system, deductions could increase to more than nine percent, significantly reducing their take-home pay.

Addressing members, the Chairman of TEWU at the University of Ghana, Benjamin Nkumsah, said the unions would not accept any arrangement that negatively affects the welfare of workers. He maintained that management’s justification that delays in government subventions necessitate the move is unacceptable.

Mr. Nkumsah has given the University of Ghana management a two-week ultimatum to provide clarity on the proposed Controller payroll arrangement and address the concerns raised by staff.

The development has heightened tension on campus as staff await the university management’s response to the unions’ demands.

The Controller and Accountant-General’s payroll system is part of broader government efforts to centralise public sector payroll management.