NLC Warns Ghana’s 24‑Hour Economy Will Stall Without “Total Workforce Transformation”
Accra, Ghana – July 31, 2025 – The National Labour Commission (NLC) has cautioned that Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy initiative can only succeed through a complete transformation of the workforce—spanning skills development, labour reforms, and cultural shifts.
Key Workforce Reforms Needed for 24‑Hour Economy
At a policy dialogue in Accra titled “Workforce Transformation: Building a Skilled, Agile & Motivated Labour Force for the 24‑Hour Economy”, acting Executive Secretary Dr. Bernice Welbeck emphasized that success rests on upskilling, role redesign, and modern management structures. The event was hosted by Berkha Africa and the Institute of Directors–Ghana, drawing leaders from over 100 organizations across finance, manufacturing, mining, agriculture, and hospitality sectors.
“NLC stresses that the 24-Hour Economy is a call for workforce transformation,” she declared, urging stakeholders—especially employers and trade unions—to align with international decent work standards, including fair remuneration and workers’ rights.
Addressing Skill Gaps: A National Priority
Industry experts warn that only about 10% of Ghana’s workforce has undergone formal TVET or digital training, creating a significant obstacle to policy implementation. Effective workforce transformation will require aggressive training, vocational programs, and a mindset shift across public and private sectors.
Labour Law Reform & Worker Safeguards
To support shift-based operations beyond daytime hours, stakeholders advocate revising labour regulations. Key reforms include guaranteeing night shift compensation, mandatory rest periods, and enforcing occupational health and safety standards.
Infrastructure & Governance Pillars Underscore Strategy
Representatives from SIGA (State Interests and Governance Authority) and other institutions stressed the need for complementary infrastructure reforms—such as 24-hour public transport, enhanced broadband access, and better lighting/security—to sustain a round-the-clock economy. Good corporate governance is positioned as a cornerstone of the policy’s success.
Economic Transformation: Jobs & Growth Potential
Government projections indicate the 24-Hour Economy could generate up to 1.7 million jobs over the next four years and boost national GDP. However, the policy’s success hinges on measurable benchmarks, public-private collaboration, and minimizing implementation gaps.
Source: My News Ghana
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