Dr. Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, the Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, has reaffirmed his commitment to protecting workers’ rights and promoting decent jobs in Ghana. On his first day in office, Dr. Pelpuo assured that his ministry would work tirelessly to strengthen systems for workplace dispute resolution, collective bargaining, and social dialogue.
Dr. Pelpuo, who also serves as the lawmaker for the Wa Central constituency, reiterated President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to creating decent jobs, protecting workers’ rights, and improving their livelihoods. He emphasized the need to increase productivity, sustainability of businesses, and accelerate economic growth.
The minister underscored the importance of promoting job creation and employment opportunities, particularly for the youth, women, and vulnerable groups. He pledged to collaborate with the private sector, educational institutions, and development partners to enhance skills training, entrepreneurship, and labor market access.
On workers’ rights and social protection, Dr. Pelpuo disclosed that the government would work on the Labour Bill and the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Bill to improve workplace safety and strengthen social protection for all workers. He also noted that his outfit would focus on building staff capacities and strengthening the ministry’s institutions to improve service delivery.
Dr. Pelpuo’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and promoting decent jobs is a welcome development, especially given his earlier call to eliminate child labour and classify it as a criminal offence.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
