Management of the University of Cape Coast and staff unions have resolved to create a congenial environment that will foster industrial harmony on campus.

Leadership from the four staff unions- University Teachers Association UTAG), Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA), Senior Staff Association (SSA) and Teachers and Education Workers (TEWU) participated in the 2022 Management and Staff retreat which was held in Takoradi from 18th -20th August, 2023.

The annual meeting provides the platform for both management and union leaders to express their grievances, share perspectives, and find common ground to advance the cause of the University.

Opening the meeting, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong acknowledged the contributions of unions as pivotal to the progress of the University.

The Vice-Chancellor indicated that UCC’s status as the number ranked university in Ghana, West Africa and fourth in Africa behoves on all staff a responsibility to play their respective roles effectively to reposition the University as a role model for other institutions.

“Let’s all contribute towards creating an environment of trust, respect, and understanding, where the talents and contributions of all employees are recognised and their commitment to the well-being of the staff and the importance of creating a harmonious work environment” he emphasised.

The Vice-Chancellor acknowledged the challenges faced by the employees and expressed management’s willingness to engage them to find mutually beneficial solutions.

Some of the issues discussed at the retreat included Staff Common Fund, Unions Participation in UCC Enterprise, Construction of UCC Market and Activities, Report from UCC Staff Health Fund Committee, Discussion on Promoting Labour Harmony, and Reports from the four Unions and other concerns by the Union leaders.

At the end of the three two-day retreat, Management and leaders of the Unions reaffirmed their commitment to work together in the interest of the University and also promote the welfare of staff to sustain UCC’s status as the University of Competitive Choice.

As part of the retreat, some of the participants embarked on a tour of the Western Naval Command in Sekondi to acquaint themselves with the activities of the Ghana Navy.

The team had opportunity to experience private vessel tour.