Push for upskilling of workforce

– In the face of technological change – Prez to TUC

By Daniel NONOR, Accra

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called on Trade Unions to spearhead efforts in upskilling workers amid recent technological advancements, warning that the rise of automation and artificial intelligence could render many jobs obsolete.

 “Trade unions must be at the forefront of ensuring that technology does not take workers’ places at the workplace,”

Speaking at the 12th Quadrennial Delegates’ Congress of the TUC in Accra, yesterday the President emphasized the importance of trade unions in ensuring that advancements in technology, such as automation and artificial intelligence, do not lead to job losses or increased inequality.

“The rise of automation, artificial intelligence, and the gig economy represents both opportunities and challenges. Unions should advocate for policies that ensure these technological advancements do not lead to job losses or increased inequality. Instead, they should push for initiatives that promote upskilling and reskilling, ensuring the workforce is prepared for the jobs of the future”. The President noted

In addition to addressing the challenges posed by technological advancements, President Akufo-Addo also urged the TUC to be at the forefront of promoting gender equality and inclusion in the workplace.

He noted that despite women constituting a substantial portion of the workforce, they often face discrimination, lower wages, and limited opportunities for advancement.

“Trade unions should champion the cause of gender equality, pushing for equal pay for equal work, anti-discrimination policies, and support for working mothers, including maternity leave and childcare facilities,” he said. The President also welcomed the recent passage of the Affirmative Action Bill, which aims to strengthen efforts to achieve gender parity in the workplace.

 The President noted that the theme of the Congress, “Sustaining and Leveraging the Power of Trade Unions in a Challenging Economic Environment,” was particularly apt, given the current economic landscape.

He highlighted the significant role that the TUC in Ghana’s socio-economic development since its inception in 1945, emphasizing that the organization’s influence must continue to grow as the country navigates the complexities of the modern world.

“In such times, the power of trade unions must be sustained and leveraged to protect workers’ interests and navigate these turbulent waters collectively. Trade unions should continue to advocate for policies that promote economic stability, job security, and social justice.”

President Akufo-Addo also praised the strong and constructive relationship between his government and the TUC, which he said had been instrumental in maintaining industrial peace and harmony within the labor sector. He extended his gratitude to the outgoing Secretary General of the TUC, Dr. Anthony Yaw Baah , acknowledging his critical yet constructive partnership over the past years.

Reflecting on the achievements of his government in collaboration with the TUC, President Akufo-Addo cited several milestones, including the holistic review of the Single Spine Salary Structure and the Labor Act 2003 (Act 651), which he said were necessary to meet the growing needs of workers. He noted that public sector workers on the Single Spine Salary Structure received a 30% increase in their base pay for 2023, the highest adjustment since the policy’s introduction in 2010.

The President also pointed to improvements in the pension sector, noting that active contributors to the SSNIT scheme increased from 1.35 million in 2016 to 2 million as of April 2024. Pension coverage in the informal sector saw a significant rise from 91,253 in 2016 to 817,444 currently.

“These significant adjustments demonstrate the government’s commitment to maintaining high-income levels for both workers and pensioners,” he said.  Adding that that “the growth of pension fund assets serves as vital capital for investment, infrastructural development, and job creation.”

The President Akufo-Addo called on the TUC to play a pivotal role in promoting green jobs and environmentally-friendly policies. He emphasized that as the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, unions must advocate for a transition towards a more sustainable economy, ensuring that workers are not left behind.

“The future of work must be green, and unions should be at the forefront of this transition,” the President asserted. “This will help protect our planet while creating new employment opportunities in renewable energy, waste management, and other sectors.”

The President also highlighted the importance of mental health in the workplace, urging the TUC to advocate for mental health support, stress management programs, and a culture that prioritizes the well-being of workers. He acknowledged the pressures of modern life and the demands of work, which can take a toll on employees’ mental health.

President Akufo-Addo urged the delegates of the TUC to approach the Congress with a sense of purpose and responsibility, emphasizing that the decisions made at the event would shape not only the future of the TUC but also the future of the nation.

“Let us work together to ensure that the power of trade unions is not only sustained but also leveraged to build a brighter, more equitable, and prosperous Ghana for all,” the President concluded.

Dr. Yaw Baah, the outgoing General Secretary of the Trade Unions Congress on his part  delivered a heartfelt farewell speech marking the end of his three decade long career with the organization.

Dr. Baah took the audience through his journey with the TUC, which began in 1993 when he was employed as a researcher.

 “I started this journey over 30 years ago,” he said.

“I was employed by the TUC in 1993 as a researcher after I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the University of Ghana. That was December 1, 1993.”

Dr. Baah shared how his career developed, including his pursuit of a Master’s degree in Financial Economics in Norway and a PhD in Economics from the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom. Upon his return to Ghana, he rejoined the TUC and steadily rose through the ranks.

“I was promoted to Deputy Head of Research and later Head of Research when my boss retired,” he recalled.

His leadership eventually led to the establishment of the Labour Research and Policy Institute of TUC, which he headed before being elected Deputy Secretary General in 2008, and finally, Secretary General in 2016.

Dr. Baah thanked the delegates and members of the TUC for their support throughout his career, stating that “TUC has made me who I am today, and I hope that I’ve also done something good for TUC. I hope so. I’ll leave that to the members to judge.” He called for continued solidarity within the labour movement