The Ghana Association of University Administrators at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (GAUA-KNUST) has taken a significant step. They have adopted a local constitution. This new document introduces electoral reforms. The goal is to improve how leaders are chosen.
These reforms aim for more transparency. They also seek to reduce arguments during elections. The association held a general meeting to finalise these changes. The meeting also covered salary negotiations. It also discussed proposed reforms for Ghana's public sector pay. President of GAUA-KNUST, Mr. Festus Nyame, led the discussions.
The new constitution addresses past concerns. There was a lack of clear rules for electing executives. Mr. Nyame explained the new procedures. An election committee will be formed three months before terms end. This creates a structured process. The constitution also details who can run for office. It covers how vacant positions are announced. It also explains how election notices are shared. Clear voting procedures are now in place.
Voting can happen in two ways. People can vote in person. They can also vote electronically. Candidates can name representatives. These representatives will be at central coordination points. This ensures fairness in the voting process. These changes were effective from May 27, 2026.
Mr. Nyame also commented on government salary adjustments. Recent changes cover market premiums. They also cover non-basic allowances. These have been combined and increased. This is to help workers with rising prices. Salary negotiations are currently paused. This adjustment offers temporary help. Broader discussions on public sector jobs continue. The government increased the market premium and non-basic allowance by 40%. This means about a 13% rise in basic salaries.
This adjustment is separate from another increase. Public sector workers already received a 9% salary increment. The new consolidated allowance increase is expected from April 2026. Any owed back pay will also be given then. The market premium had not changed for many years. It was fixed when the Single Spine Salary Structure began. This structure has been in place for about 15 years.
The government is also looking at bigger changes. Reforms to the entire public sector salary system are planned. The existing Single Spine Salary Structure might be phased out. This shows a move towards updating compensation. These reforms are crucial for public sector morale. They also impact national recruitment strategies.