First Female SSAoUG President, Ms. Gladys Alantiya Redefines Union Leadership at UG

Seven months after making history as the first woman to lead the Senior Staff Association of the University of Ghana (SSAoUG), Ms. Gladys Alantiya continues to make her mark through a leadership style grounded in integrity, dialogue and service. Her election was not only a milestone for the Association but also for the entire University.

When she took office, expectations were high. But Ms. Alantiya has met the moment with calm resolve and a clear sense of purpose.

Speaking with the Public Affairs Directorate Media Desk, she noted, “I knew the responsibility that came with this role. I don’t want to set a bad precedent for women who will come after me. That challenge pushes me to do my best every day.”

From Humble Beginnings to Historic Leadership

Ms. Alantiya’s journey to the top is one of determination and quiet strength. Joining the University in 2004 as a messenger/cleaner, she worked her way up while pursuing her education. Coming from a less privileged background, she relied on discipline and perseverance to rise through the ranks, earning a diploma, an undergraduate degree, and ultimately a master’s degree.

Now a Principal Hall Assistant at Volta Hall, she stands as an example of what resilience and commitment can achieve.

Leading with Integrity and Purpose

Before assuming the presidency, Ms. Alantiya served as Financial Secretary of the Association, where she became known for her commitment to accountability and transparency, values that continue to define her leadership.

“My leadership is guided by honesty, respect, and transparency,” she said. “Money and power can divide people, but integrity builds trust.”

In her first seven months in office, she has already delivered results that directly impact the welfare of senior staff members.

Early Achievements

Ms. Alantiya and her executives successfully negotiated for the inclusion of all senior staff members in the University’s utility allowance, which was previously limited to those in Principal and Chief ranks.

She also secured approval for the payment of a hospital market premium allowance for staff of the Small Animal Teaching Hospital (Veterinary Centre).

These milestones reflect her focus on fairness and inclusivity, ensuring that all staff benefit equitably from the University’s welfare provisions.

Ongoing Challenges

Despite these gains, Ms. Alantiya acknowledges that challenges remain. The Association currently lacks a dedicated office space and continues to advocate for representation on the University Council.

“The University of Ghana Act 806 does not make provision for Senior Staff representation on Council,” she explained. “We’ve petitioned for the Chairperson to attend meetings until the Act is amended. As the largest staff group, our views need to be part of the decision-making process.”

Shaping a New Kind of Unionism

Ms. Alantiya is intentional about changing perceptions of union leadership, moving it away from confrontation towards collaboration.

“Unionism should not always be about strikes and conflict,” she noted. “I want to build a legacy of dialogue and engagement, where we work together to solve problems rather than fight over them.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

As a trailblazer, Ms. Alantiya continues to inspire women across the University and beyond. Her message to young women aspiring to lead is one of confidence and preparation.

“Leadership is demanding, but possible. Believe in yourself, study hard, manage your time and don’t let fear hold you back. If you’re called to serve, step forward.”

Seven months into her tenure, Ms. Gladys Alantiya remains a symbol of progress, perseverance and purpose. As the first female president of a senior staff union at the University of Ghana, she is not just breaking barriers, she is redefining leadership for generations to come.