The Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC), Prof Eric Opoku Mensah has charged the staff of the University to embrace an atmosphere of constructive criticisms and idea contestations without fear of victimisation as the University embarks on a new growth agenda under his leadership. He made this declaration at a series of staff durbar that were held across the three constituent institutes of the University, namely, the Institute of Journalism (IJ), the Institute of Languages (IL), and the Institute of Film and Television (IFT) in a bid to foster open communication and apprise himself of the issues bothering staff since his appointment to the new role.
The series of staff durbar provided platforms for staff members to voice their concerns and engage in constructive dialogue with university leadership. One of the key issues raised by staff members during the durbars was the need for the rapid synchronization of staff salaries and allowances across the three constituent institutes. Many expressed frustrations over discrepancies in compensation packages, citing concerns about fairness and equity. In response, Prof Opoku Mensah acknowledged the validity of these concerns and pledged to work assiduously towards standardizing remuneration to ensure parity among staff members.
In addition to salary concerns, staff members also called for a more democratic atmosphere within the university, advocating for an end to what they described as a culture of silence. Many expressed a desire for greater transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in decision-making processes, urging university leadership to actively engage with staff input and feedback.
Addressing these concerns, Prof Opoku Mensah emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of openness, dialogue, and collaboration within the university community. He affirmed his commitment to promoting transparency and accountability in all university affairs and encouraged staff members to actively participate in the governance and decision-making processes of UniMAC.
Furthermore, Prof Opoku Mensah reiterated his administration’s dedication to upholding the welfare and interests of all staff members, emphasizing the importance of fair and equitable treatment for all. He pledged to prioritize the resolution of staff concerns and to work closely with relevant stakeholders to address issues related to salaries, allowances, and institutional governance. He took the opportunity to take pictures and interact further with the staff in a more convivial atmosphere.
As UniMAC moves forward under new leadership, the conclusion of the staff durbars marks an important step towards fostering a culture of collaboration within the university community. Staff members are hopeful that their concerns will be addressed promptly and that their voices will continue to be heard and valued by university leadership.
NOTE:
UniMAC is a public university that was birthed out of a merger between the former Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ), the Ghana Institute of Languages (GIL) and the National Film and Television Institute (NAFTI).