Resolve GTEC leadership dispute through dialogue, not ultimatums

The National Conference of Principals of Colleges of Education, Ghana (PRINCOF), has appealed for calm and constructive dialogue in response to recent calls by some branches of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) for the resignation or removal of the Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), Prof. Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, and his Deputy, Prof. Augustine Ocloo.

In a statement dated Monday, February 2, 2026, and signed by its General Secretary, Dr. Samuel Addae-Boateng, PRINCOF said it had taken note of the demands “with concern” and encouraged all involved to approach the situation with restraint and level-headedness.

While acknowledging the issues raised by UTAG branches within the traditional universities, PRINCOF cautioned that the use of public ultimatums and threats of industrial action calls for careful and sober consideration. The conference stressed that the matters in question require deeper engagement rather than hurried conclusions.

PRINCOF maintained that disagreements related to leadership and governance in the tertiary education sector should be addressed through dialogue and constructive engagement, rather than confrontational tactics. It urged stakeholders to prioritise discussion over public pressure and strike threats.

The body further advised that grievances be directed through appropriate statutory and administrative channels, such as the Ministry of Education and the GTEC Governing Board, noting that these avenues allow for collaborative problem-solving and help avoid unnecessary escalation. It warned that setting deadlines and issuing ultimatums could heighten tensions and threaten the stability of tertiary institutions.

PRINCOF also highlighted its working relationship with GTEC under the leadership of Prof. Jinapor Abdulai and Prof. Ocloo, describing the management as approachable and receptive to engagement and dialogue.

The conference concluded by calling on all stakeholders to remain calm and act in the collective interest of Ghana’s tertiary education system. It urged government, regulators, and academic staff to come together to address concerns through reasoned dialogue in a way that safeguards institutional integrity and supports national development.