The Private Universities Founders Association of Ghana (PUFA-Ghana) has lauded the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) for its de
The Private Universities Founders Association of Ghana (PUFA-Ghana) has lauded the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) for its decision to suspend the recent nationwide strike action, which had crippled portions of the country’s healthcare system and drawn widespread concern.
In a press statement signed by its President, Dr. Paul Kofi Fynn, PUFA-Ghana expressed deep appreciation to the GRNMA for what it described as a “demonstration of commitment to constructive dialogue and resolution” despite unresolved grievances surrounding conditions of service for nurses and midwives.
The Association also extended its gratitude to key stakeholders, including the Government of Ghana and the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health, whose open dialogue and intervention were instrumental in reaching the agreement that led to the suspension of the industrial action.
The nationwide strike, which lasted several days, was initiated by the GRNMA in protest over long-standing issues such as poor remuneration, delayed allowances, and inadequate working conditions.
The industrial action disrupted healthcare delivery across multiple facilities, with maternal health and emergency services most severely affected.
Tragically, several deaths were reported due to delayed or unavailable care, prompting national outcry and calls for urgent resolution.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families who lost loved ones during the strike,” PUFA-Ghana stated. “No strike should cost a single Ghanaian life.”
As part of its contribution to national discourse, PUFA-Ghana proposed a series of long-term solutions aimed at preventing future strikes in the health sector.
Among the key recommendations are:
1. Establishment of a Health Sector Consultative Forum – A permanent platform involving the Ministry of Health, union leaders, and healthcare administrators to address emerging grievances before they escalate.
2. Goodwill Gesture from Government – PUFA-Ghana urged the state to consider staying all legal proceedings initiated over the strike in recognition of the union’s decision to suspend the action.
3. Predictable Negotiation Frameworks – The group called for structured and timely processes for addressing salary negotiations and reviewing working conditions, to be done collaboratively with financial authorities including the Ministry of Finance and the Accountant General’s Department.
4. Enhanced Health Worker Welfare – Improving support programs to both attract and retain qualified health professionals, especially in rural and underserved communities.
5. Accountability through Oversight Bodies – Strengthening institutional monitoring systems to ensure the effective implementation of agreements and to build trust between stakeholders.
6. Private Sector Incentives – Encouraging increased participation by private entities in healthcare delivery, under clear regulatory frameworks to safeguard quality and accessibility.
7. Continuity Planning for Health Emergencies – PUFA also advocated for risk management mechanisms across public and allied health institutions to ensure uninterrupted service during future disputes or emergencies.
PUFA-Ghana emphasized its readiness to contribute expert input and institutional support in shaping and executing these reforms.
Dr. Fynn noted that as a non-partisan and development-focused organization, PUFA-Ghana views the education and health sectors as pillars of national development, deserving of comprehensive and sustainable investment.
“Education must not only produce knowledge but must inspire service and sacrifice. Likewise, healthcare must be protected at all costs,” Dr. Fynn stressed.
PUFA-Ghana concluded its statement by reaffirming its solidarity with all stakeholders working towards a resilient healthcare system and called for collective action to ensure the preservation of life and dignity in the health sector.
COMMENTS