Editorial
Let there be industrial peace!
Not long ago, we heard from the Trades Union Congress Secretary General that “if the government does not increase the minimum wage to the inflation level, workers would embark on strike.”
This statement came as a surprise to many people in the country because it is the same Secretary General who was part of the negotiation team for the increase of the minimum wage for 2022. Some workers are of the view that he wants to take this action as a show of flexing muscles to government to get the minimum wage increased.
We need to keep away from such threats because as a peaceful country, we can always come together at the negotiation table to settle matters relating to wage levels so that we can always find ourselves in a win-win situation.
Win-win situation means the negotiation will be carried out in such a way that each of the parties will win and not be a loser. Such negotiations, positive as they are, are what we need as a country so as to forestall disturbances of the peace and encourage productivity on the labour front.
Without peace on the labour front, not much can be achieved and that explains why partners on the negotiation table must always bear in mind to have the national interest at heart when negotiating.
Workers deserve to be treated better. Indeed, they need to enjoy higher salaries than they are doing now.
However, the economic challenges the world is facing today have made it extremely difficult for governments to increase salaries of workers to the desired levels. It is in light of this that the TUC Secretary General ought to refrain from threatening the government with strikes. Rather than confronting the government with strikes, the TUC should rather sit with government and negotiate for better conditions for workers. Bearing in mind the difficulties confronting the workers, the TUC should refrain from actions that are aggressive but rather seek a peaceful negotiation.
In all this, they should have it in mind that the national kitty cannot provide for all their needs.
As has been pointed out by labour analyst, Mr Seth Abloso, the TUC’s threat to embark on industrial action if the daily national minimum wage is not increased, is unnecessary.
This is because the TUC should have addressed this issue long ago after the release of the Professor Yaa Ntiamoah Baidoo Committee Report. The report contained credible information which could have been utilised by the TUC for a more peaceful and purposeful information.
The Spectator is appealing to the TUC Secretary General and his workers to refrain from any disturbance of the industrial peace.
A more friendly and peaceful negotiation is what is needed on the industrial front for the promotion of productivity in the country.
Dear Editor,
THE Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced that most Senior High Schools (SHSs) will return to the single-track system by this month.
For many students and parents, this feels like a relief. But before we move on, we must take a moment to reflect.
The double-track system helped thousands of students get into schools. It gave hope to families who couldn’t afford private education. But it also came with challenges.
Some students had shorter terms, others had longer breaks. Teachers were stretched, and learning felt rushed. Many students felt left behind not because they didn’t try, but because the system didn’t give them enough time.
Now that we’re returning to single-track, let’s make sure we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past. We need more classrooms, better planning, and support for teachers.
Education is not just about getting into school. It’s about feeling safe and supported. Let’s build a system that gives every child a real chance.
Beatrice Princess Kpeglah,
Dansoman
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Dear Editor
As it is critical for preserving our surroundings, there is the urgent need for increased awareness and action to protect Ghana’s environment and resources.
Ghana’s forest reserves, vast savannas and scenic coastlines serve as homes and habitats to a wide range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species.
Our vegetation and rich soil deposits provide the nation with food, plants and animal resources, which ensures food availability and accessibility for the population.
However, the country’s environment is facing numerous threats including deforestation, overexploitation, pollution, etc.
The importance of environmental conservation cannot be overstated; our natural resources are the backbone of our economy, playing a vital role in driving the country’s economic growth and development.
It is therefore critical that we take actions to protect them for our future generations.
There is the need for collective action to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.
Environmentalists, various organizations and private individuals must come on board to promote environmental conservation, through tree planting exercises, clean-up campaigns, and resource conservation practices.
These efforts, when carried out effectively, would create a long-lasting impact in protecting and conserving the country’s environment.
The Ghanaian government should also implement policies and conduct regular programmes aimed at promoting environmental conservation.
By Theresa Tsetse Dzifa,
Bubiashie
