The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), Dr. George Smith Graham, has proposed the adoption of an hourly wage system across all sectors in Ghana. He believes this approach could significantly improve income fairness, especially for casual and low-income workers. Dr. Graham made this proposal on Friday, May 16, 2025, during a familiarization visit by the Parliamentary Select Committee on Employment, Labour Relations, and Pensions. The committee visited the FWSC, the National Pensions Regulatory Authority, and the Management Development and Productivity Institute (MDPI).
Dr. Graham explained that implementing an hourly wage system would not only lead to fairer compensation for casual laborers but would also help formalize the growing informal sector. According to him, this change would increase transparency in salary calculations and enhance workers’ access to social protection schemes. He emphasized that such a system would allow for better remuneration based on time worked and would contribute to reducing income inequality in the labor market.
The proposal has drawn widespread support from members of the public. One individual described it as a very good decision that could benefit many people, expressing hope for a brighter future under former President John Dramani Mahama’s leadership. Another commenter, Prince Miller, suggested that the system should not only be applied in the public sector but also in the private sector. Christian noted that the proposal is long overdue and would encourage greater responsibility and time management among workers.
Others also expressed enthusiasm, including a contributor who mentioned plans to launch a company in Africa next year that would adopt this daily wage model and employ more Ghanaians. Maxwell praised the idea, stating that it aligns with the “reset agenda” needed to address the country’s economic challenges. However, political undertones emerged as one individual claimed the NDC was targeting his business to block his potential leadership bid within the NPP, fearing it could lead to their return to power.
Overall, the proposal has sparked positive reactions, reflecting a collective desire for labor reforms that ensure fairer compensation and better working conditions.
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