Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, the Minister-Designate for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, has presented the National Democratic Congress (NDC) proposed 24-hour economy as a transformative initiative designed to significantly enhance productivity, generate employment opportunities, and improve the livelihoods of Ghana’s workforce.
During his vetting by Parliament on Thursday, January 30, Pelpuo articulated his vision for how this ambitious policy could reshape Ghana’s labour landscape, particularly in addressing youth unemployment and elevating workers’ remuneration.
The 24-hour economy initiative, championed by former President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC, aims to extend economic activities beyond the traditional 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. work schedule. The proposed policy framework advocates for a three-shift working system across various industries, ensuring continuous economic operations throughout the day and night. This paradigm shift is viewed as essential in maximizing the potential of Ghana’s workforce, thereby driving increased productivity and economic growth.
Pelpuo emphasized that the successful implementation of this policy would not only optimize labour efficiency but also serve as a catalyst for the creation of new jobs across multiple sectors. He pointed out that the initiative is rooted in a broader understanding of the challenges facing the Ghanaian workforce, particularly the alarming rates of youth unemployment that have persisted over the years. By creating a more dynamic and flexible work environment, the 24-hour economy is positioned to open up a myriad of opportunities for young people entering the job market.
“Implementing the 24-hour economy will allow us to tap into the full potential of our workforce,” Pelpuo stated during his vetting. “We need to adapt our working hours to reflect the realities of a modern economy, and this means creating a system that accommodates diverse working patterns while ensuring that we meet the demands of our industries.”
He further explained that the initiative is not merely about extending working hours; it is also focused on ensuring that workers receive fair compensation for their efforts. Recognizing the significance of fair wages, Pelpuo underscored the need for the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders, including trade unions and employer associations, to establish equitable remuneration structures that reflect the increased productivity expected from this new working arrangement.
“The 24-hour economy is a commitment to the Ghanaian worker,” Pelpuo said. “It is about ensuring that we engage them effectively and that the 24-hour working arrangement we are proposing not only enhances productivity but also translates into better pay for our workers.”
The Minister-Designate also highlighted the potential impact of the 24-hour economy on sectors such as manufacturing, services, and tourism. By adopting a round-the-clock operational model, businesses can maximize output and cater to a broader range of customers, both locally and internationally. For instance, in the tourism sector, a 24-hour economy could facilitate increased visitor engagement, leading to higher revenue generation and job creation in hospitality and related services.
Moreover, Pelpuo noted that the implementation of the 24-hour economy aligns with global trends where economies are increasingly adopting flexible working hours to adapt to the demands of modern consumers. He urged Parliament to support this initiative as a critical step towards positioning Ghana as a competitive player in the global market.
“In today’s fast-paced world, we cannot afford to remain stagnant,” he asserted. “The 24-hour economy is not just a policy; it is a vision for a thriving future where our workforce is empowered, and our economy is resilient.”
In addition to the economic benefits, Pelpuo acknowledged the potential social implications of the 24-hour economy, particularly in promoting gender equality in the workplace. He pointed out that flexible working hours could provide greater opportunities for women to participate in the workforce, balancing their professional responsibilities with family commitments. This aspect of the policy is expected to contribute to a more inclusive economic environment, fostering diversity and equal opportunity across all sectors.
As part of his vision, Pelpuo expressed his commitment to working collaboratively with relevant ministries, agencies, and stakeholders to develop a comprehensive implementation plan for the 24-hour economy. This plan will include strategies for workforce training and development, ensuring that workers are equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in a constantly evolving job market.
“The success of the 24-hour economy hinges on our ability to prepare our workforce for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” Pelpuo explained. “We must invest in training and skill development initiatives that will empower our workers and enhance their employability.”
The Minister-Designate’s vision for a 24-hour economy reflects a proactive approach to addressing the pressing issues of unemployment and underemployment in Ghana. By fostering an environment that encourages continuous economic activity and fair compensation, Pelpuo aims to lay the groundwork for sustainable economic growth that benefits all Ghanaians.
As the vetting process continues, there is a palpable sense of anticipation surrounding Pelpuo’s plans for the Labour, Jobs, and Employment Ministry. Stakeholders from various sectors are keenly observing the developments, hoping that the proposed 24-hour economy will pave the way for a more robust and inclusive economic framework in Ghana.
In conclusion, Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo’s commitment to the 24-hour economy represents a significant shift in how Ghana approaches labour and employment. By embracing this transformative initiative, the government aims to create a more dynamic workforce capable of meeting the challenges of a rapidly changing global economy. With the support of Parliament and collaboration across sectors, the vision for a 24-hour economy can become a reality, leading to enhanced productivity, job creation, and improved livelihoods for all Ghanaians.
