In a press release available to ghana360news.com, Public university lecturers in Ghana, represented by the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), have issued a call for the immediate operationalisation of the National Research Fund, in an effort to address crucial concerns surrounding research funding and Book and Research Allowances (BRA). Public university lecturers have three main responsibilities: conducting research, teaching, and providing community service to promote development. The promotion of UTAG members is often dependent on these tasks. These endeavors require significant funding, primarily obtained through foreign grants that often dictate the research’s agenda and focus.However, sustainability suffers when foreign agencies fund local research. UTAG argues that national funding is essential to achieve effective and sustainable research that addresses contextual developmental problems.In a statement, UTAG highly commends the Parliament of Ghana for passing the National Research Fund Act (Act 1056) but emphasizes the urgent need for its operationalisation. As a first step, UTAG proposes that the government allocate 1% of GDP to kickstart the National Research Fund, which would enable locally-driven research initiatives.Of particular concern is the potential for the National Research Fund to replace the Book and Research Allowance (BRA), which is a critical component of the conditions of service for UTAG members. UTAG notes that the disbursement of BRA for the already completed 2022/2023 academic year has been significantly delayed, causing tension on university campuses.UTAG is urging the government to ensure that all UTAG members receive their BRA by the 21st of October to prevent any disruptions to industrial harmony in the public university system.This call from UTAG has raised important questions about the balance between national research funding and allowances for university lecturers, emphasizing the need for a sustainable model that can drive research while ensuring fair compensation for educators. The government’s response to these demands will have a significant impact on the future of higher education and research in Ghana.

Source: Arnold Mashud | Ghana360news.com