The President of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), Mr. Kyeremeh Oppong Daniel, has called for decisive action to tackle the ongoing illegal mining (galamsey) menace while also urging the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) to reconsider their strike action. Addressing a press conference, Mr. Oppong Daniel outlined the Union’s stance on both pressing national issues, which he described as critical to the future of Ghana’s students and the environment.
On the Galamsey Menace
Mr. Oppong Daniel highlighted the devastating impact of galamsey on the environment, citing the pollution of water bodies, destruction of farmlands, and severe health risks to communities. He emphasized that while mining plays a significant role in the national economy, the destructive effects of illegal mining activities far outweigh the benefits.
“NUGS advocates for community engagement and education as a major part of the solution,” Mr. Oppong Daniel stated. He called on the government to partner with NUGS and other NGOs to organize workshops and leverage the media to educate the public on the dangers of illegal mining. He also urged students to take an active role in spreading awareness through social media and community outreach initiatives.
In his address, the NUGS President called for stricter legislation and enforcement to regulate mining activities. He urged the government to increase penalties for offenders and ensure transparency in the issuance of mining licenses. Mr. Oppong Daniel also proposed the strengthening of the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Program (NAELP) to provide more sustainable livelihood options for those affected by illegal mining.
Additionally, the NUGS President suggested using advanced technologies like drones to monitor mining activities and detect illegal operations. He advocated for public-private partnerships to invest in eco-friendly industries such as agriculture and eco-tourism as alternatives to illegal mining.
“Illegal mining has wreaked havoc on our environment,” Mr. Oppong Daniel stated. “NUGS calls upon the government to take urgent action, whether through the deployment of the military or a temporary ban on mining activities.”
On UTAG’s Strike Action
Turning to the ongoing strike by UTAG, Mr. Oppong Daniel expressed deep concern over the disruption of academic activities, which he said would negatively affect students. UTAG, which initiated its strike in protest against the government’s failure to address issues related to organized labor, voted overwhelmingly to embark on indefinite industrial action.
Mr. Oppong Daniel described the strike as counterproductive, urging UTAG to reconsider their decision and explore more practical ways to address their grievances. “We believe that students should not bear the cost of this strike. UTAG’s expertise is crucial, and we plead that they utilize it to engage in policy discussions rather than staying at home,” he said.
The NUGS President called on UTAG to take an active role in community engagement and policy dialogue, leveraging their academic expertise to contribute to the fight against illegal mining. He urged UTAG members to prioritize dialogue with the government and withdraw from their strike to safeguard the academic future of students.
A Call for Unity and Collaboration
In concluding his address, Mr. Oppong Daniel called for a united approach to address both the galamsey menace and UTAG’s grievances. He urged all stakeholders to collaborate on sustainable solutions that would protect the environment and ensure that the educational system remains stable and progressive.
“NUGS remains committed to advocating for the welfare of students and ensuring that education continues uninterrupted,” Mr. Oppong Daniel affirmed.
