The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has expressed disappointment in Prof Kwamena Kwansah-Aidoo, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC), over remarks regarding the Book and Research Allowances (BRA) paid to its members.
Prof Kwansah-Aidoo suggested at a public lecture organized by the SD Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies that the allowance be abolished and replaced with an application-based research fund.
UTAG described the remarks as ‘sneering’ and disheartening, noting that they were made with a limited understanding of what the BRA is used for.
According to the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), the Book and Research Allowance (BRA) serves not only for scholarly publications, as suggested by the Vice Chancellor, but is also crucial in supporting academic pursuits, professional development, and promoting a culture of research excellence within universities.
“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,” part of a statement issued by UTAG read.
UTAG stated that their research activities contribute to enhancing teaching and making contributions to society beyond scholarly publications.
The union expressed that the Vice Chancellor’s proposal to abolish the BRA reflects a limited understanding of research activities. UTAG called for an apology from the Vice Chancellor for his remarks.
“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,” portions of the February 3 statement read.