The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who doubles as the Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has called labour unions, particularly the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) to be measured in their expectations when demanding for improved conditions of service.

He wants labour unions and civil society organizations to be considerate as Ghana and many economies across the world face economic challenges.

“I urge the government to continue to ensure that equity is manifestly done, and the citizens are fairly assured and satisfied. In the same breath, I call on UTAG and all other unions on campus and civil society at large, to be measured in their expectations, particularly at this time when the global economy is battling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war.”

The Asantehene made this statement at the special congregation ceremony at KNUST.

He believes the appeal, if considered, will help avoid long industrial actions by workers’ groups.

“I know that resources are always limited and therefore cannot have all we want all the time. I hope that dialogue, goodwill and trust which are essential ingredients in resolving conflict will be applied in all negotiations between labour unions and government in order to avoid such prolonged strike.”

Meanwhile, the Asantehene expressed excitement over government’s decision to resume construction works on the KNUST teaching hospital project, which was abandoned for over a decade.

He also disclosed that the first phase of the project would be completed in October this year.