Finance Minister Engages Tertiary Education Unions on Payroll Audit and Book Allowances
Accra, Ghana – June 11, 2025
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has updated leaders of Ghana’s tertiary education sector on the government’s ongoing payroll reforms, with a strong call for their support in eliminating ghost names from the public payroll.
At a meeting with representatives of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG), and the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG), Dr. Forson explained that the engagement was prompted by a formal request from the unions regarding the Book and Research Allowance.
Ghost Names Costing the Nation
Dr. Forson revealed that preliminary findings from the Auditor-General’s audit indicate a significant number of ghost names on the government payroll. He stressed that addressing this issue could lead to substantial savings for the state, improving fiscal responsibility and enabling the redirection of funds to critical areas.
“Cleaning the payroll is not only about fiscal prudence,” Dr. Forson said.
“It is also about restoring integrity and fairness in public sector compensation.”
Assurances on Book and Research Allowance
Responding to the unions’ concerns, the Finance Minister assured them that the Book and Research Allowance has been fully captured in the 2025 Budget. He noted that the disbursement processes have already commenced in close coordination with the Ministry of Education.
“We are committed to ensuring timely release and transparency in the administration of these funds,” he said.
Proposal for Labour Relations Desk Welcomed
Dr. Forson also praised a proposal from the unions to establish a Labour Relations Desk within the Ministry of Finance, describing it as a forward-thinking initiative that will improve stakeholder engagement and foster smoother negotiations with organised labour.
“This initiative, once operationalised, will strengthen coordination with our counterparts on the labour front and enhance dialogue and responsiveness,” he added.
The Finance Minister reiterated government’s commitment to work collaboratively with stakeholders to build a sustainable, equitable, and accountable public service.
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