Labour Minister Urges Stronger Social Partnerships to Boost Workplace Productivity

The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Hon. Dr. Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo (MP), has underscored the need for stronger collaboration among workers, employers, and government to drive productivity and accelerate national development.

Addressing the 12th Quadrennial Delegates’ Conference of the Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU-Ghana) at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA), Dr. Pelpuo described productivity as the “backbone of any successful economy.” He emphasized that enhancing workplace productivity requires the collective responsibility of all social partners.

“Enhancing and sustaining productivity is not the responsibility of one group alone,” he said. “It requires a concerted effort from all—workers, employers, and government—to create an environment that fosters innovation, creativity, and efficiency.”

The conference, themed “Enhancing Productivity at the Workplace: The Role of Social Partners”, brought together union leaders, stakeholders, and delegates to explore how collective efforts can shape a more resilient and sustainable labour market.

Citing the Ghana Statistical Service’s 2024 National Report on Productivity, the Minister noted that while labour productivity has improved in recent years—particularly in the mining sector—other key areas with high potential for job creation and technological advancement continue to lag. He highlighted persistent challenges such as informality, underemployment, and unemployment, and reaffirmed government’s commitment to labour market reforms.

Dr. Pelpuo commended ICU-Ghana for its long-standing advocacy for workers’ rights and contribution to national development. “Your tireless efforts continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of workers and the broader community,” he remarked, acknowledging the union’s importance in building a fair and inclusive economy.

He further emphasized the role of employers in advancing productivity by ensuring fair wages, investing in employee training, and promoting work-life balance. According to the Minister, social dialogue—grounded in trust and open communication between employers, workers, and government—is indispensable for creating productive and harmonious workplaces.

“By prioritizing social dialogue, we can unlock the full potential of our workforce and build a thriving work environment conducive to well-being, innovation, and growth,” Dr. Pelpuo concluded.

The conference reaffirmed the critical importance of social partnerships in shaping a modern, inclusive labour system, and encouraged all stakeholders to work together toward a more productive and prosperous future for Ghana.