Dambai (O/R), March 20, GNA – Tension has emerged at Dambai College of Education (DACE) after the Colleges of Education Teachers Association of Ghana (CETAG)’s national leadership called for the revocation of Dr Fred Alpha Adams’ appointment as Acting Vice Principal over alleged irregularities.
The controversy between some members of the (CETAG), the Colleges of Education Non-Teaching Staff Association of Ghana (CENTSAG), and the national leadership of CETAG follows an open letter issued by the CETAG National Executive for the acting principal’s removal
However, concerned members of CETAG and CENTSAG at the College have rejected the claims, describing the letter as “dubious” and “misguided,” and insisting it does not reflect the views of the majority of teaching and non-teaching staff.
In a strongly worded response copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), the group accused the national leadership of attempting to divert attention from substantive issues surrounding the appointment, while undermining the autonomy of the institution.
They further alleged that the CETAG National Executive was acting at the behest of the College Principal, who is reportedly under investigation for alleged financial and administrative infractions.
The group criticised the national body for abandoning its core mandate of advocating for members’ welfare—particularly that of downgraded staff—and instead engaging in matters they claim fall outside its jurisdiction.
The concerned members maintained their support for Dr Adams’ appointment and called on the CETAG National Executive to refrain from interfering in the college’s internal affairs.
They also urged the leadership to retract the letter and redirect its efforts toward addressing pressing challenges confronting Colleges of Education across the country.
Conveners of the concerned CETAG group include Mr Samuel Abotoworo, Mr Michael Mampah, Mr Godwin Tetteh Siamey, and Mr Lambert Sefadzi Ahiadzi. Representing CENTSAG are Mr Essey Prince (Chairman), Mr Baya Akawoliou (Secretary), Mr Tsitsi Festus (Vice Chairman), and Mr David Agbenyenu.
The development has raised concerns about stability at the college and its potential impact on academic work. However, management has assured stakeholders that the appointment of Dr Adams is in the best interest of the institution and that academic activities will proceed without disruption.
The dispute has also reignited debate over the role of trade unions in tertiary institutions and their relationship with college administrations.
The concerned members accused the CETAG National Executive of overstepping its mandate and interfering in the internal affairs of the college.
Key stakeholders, including the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) and the Ministry of Education, have been urged to intervene to help resolve the impasse amicably.
The situation remains tense, with both sides maintaining their positions as students and staff anxiously await a resolution.
Observers who spoke to GNA noted that the outcome of the dispute could have broader implications for governance in tertiary institutions and the role of trade unions within Ghana’s education sector.