By Mildred Siabi-Mensah
Takoradi, April 09, GNA – Public Sector workers visited and engaged by the Ghana News Agency (GNA) have stressed the need for the government to retool the various government institutions for effective performance.
The offices visited revealed an outmoded chairs, tables, rusted fans and cabinet, tattered floors, “killing” the desire and appetite of most workers to give their best.
Among the offices that were visited in Takoradi in Ta were the National Commission on Civic Education, Community Development, the Metro Education Office, Rent Control Office and Information Services Department.
The Ghana News Agency office in Takoradi also has challenges.
Some of the officers the GNA engaged with in Takoradi were not also happy with salary disparities, delay in payment of allowances and other benefits to aid in proper planning particularly for a resounding retirement.
They have therefore advocated better working conditions-logistics, to support financial stability and retirement security.
“I will like the government to commission the Public Works Department to undertake good research at most public offices…Some of us sit on 20 to 30 years old chairs and tables,” Madam Nana Adjoa Assifuaba, a staff member from one of the offices said.
Mostly pleading for anonymity, all those engaged, urged the government to focus on retooling equipment, regular in-house training and capacity building, timely salary increases and prompt payment of allowances, medical bill coverage, improved logistics, and a congenial work environment.
They argued that workplace dignity was a vital part of productivity ensuring that workers operated in a sound and safe place, adding that modern tools and retooling as well as regular capacity building would boost efficiency.
Not long ago, public-sector unions like CLOGSAG and TUC demanded revisions of the Single Spine Salary Structure, including 9-20% hikes and performance-based pay.
Also, recent government agreements, such as the 2025 9% increase was welcomed in bad taste by almost all Ghanaian workers.
“A congenial workplace with fair conditions supports long-term planning, as low pay and poor preparation leads to inadequate pensions and made post-service living misery,” Mr Julian Aguair, a respondent, added.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/Benjamin Mensah