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The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) expresses its profound
disappointment in response to the recent sneering remarks made by the Vice
Chancellor of the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC), Professor Kwamena Kwansah-Aidoo, at a public lecture organised by the SD Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies, regarding the Book and Research Allowances (BRA) paid to our esteemed members, which statements are contained in a viral GBC video report.
It is disheartening to note that such significant remarks were made with a limited understanding of what the BRA is used for. We find his comments as coming from a place of disdain and a depiction of a long-standing culture of some academics climbing to the top and turning back to remove the very ladder that led them there.
His statement that he does not know what academics do with the BRA is condescending, distasteful, and pretentious, to say the least.
To set the record straight, the BRA has been a crucial component in supporting the academic pursuits and professional development of our members, fostering a culture of research excellence within our university communities. Our research activities do not only end up in scholarly publications as purported by the Vice Chancellor.
They also end up enhancing the pedagogics in the lecture rooms and a broader contribution to society. This is why the Union has always stated that the BRA has not been sufficient in delivering the core of research and book purchases.
While UTAG is not necessarily opposed to the periodic review of existing policies in our universities, we strongly oppose reviews that will be birthed from a place of ignorance and advocate for a consultative approach that involves all relevant parties.
Professor Kwamena Kwansah-Aidoo's proposal to abolish the BRA and substitute it
with an application-based research fund is one that is birthed from a limited
understanding of the full complement of the research activities in our universities and must be treated with the scorn it deserves.
We call on the Vice Chancellor to apologise to the entire membership of UTAG and, in subsequent pronouncements, engage in constructive dialogue with UTAG to gain a deeper understanding of the perspectives, concerns and research efforts of our members. This will contribute to the development of a more equitable and effective system that aligns with the University's commitment to research excellence.
