Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, the Minister-Designate for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, has described the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s proposed 24-hour economy as a game-changing initiative designed to enhance productivity, generate employment, and improve the living standards of Ghana’s workforce.
During his vetting by Parliament on Thursday, January 30, Pelpuo shared his vision for how the policy would transform the country’s labour landscape, with a particular focus on addressing youth unemployment and improving workers’ wages.
The 24-hour economy, advocated by former President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC, aims to extend economic activities beyond the traditional 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. working hours. The proposal includes a three-shift system across various industries, allowing for continuous economic activity throughout the day and night.
Pelpuo emphasized that the policy would enhance labour efficiency and harness the full potential of Ghana’s workforce to drive higher productivity.
He also highlighted that the initiative is not just about extending working hours, but ensuring fair compensation for workers’ contributions.
“The 24-hour economy is a policy introduced by President John Dramani Mahama to the people of Ghana, demonstrating a commitment to effectively engage the Ghanaian workforce. The goal is to improve the current 24-hour working model,” Pelpuo said.
“The overarching aim is to increase productivity among our workers and ensure they receive fair wages for their hard work.”