‘Workers should rise not by chance but through the quality of their work – Dr Esther Ofei-Aboagye

Social Policy Analyst and Local Governance Expert, Dr Esther Ofei-Aboagye, has called for a fairer and more transparent labour system in Ghana where workers advance based on competence, integrity and hard work rather than favouritism or connections.

She made the remarks while delivering the keynote address at the Labour Day Public Lecture organised by the Institute of Work, Employment and Society (IWES) of the University of Professional Studies, Accra under the theme: “Decent Work, Real Recognition: Rising by Merit.”

According to Dr Ofei-Aboagye, every Ghanaian deserves decent work, real recognition and the opportunity to rise through merit, stressing that employment must be dignified, safe, fairly rewarded and responsive to people’s aspirations.

She said Ghana’s workforce is facing major challenges, including rising living costs, youth unemployment, underemployment, technological disruptions and widening inequalities in access to opportunities.

She noted that over 80 percent of workers are engaged in the informal sector, many without adequate protection, clear contracts or social security.

Dr Ofei-Aboagye stated that decent work goes beyond simply having a job and must include fair wages, safe working environments, freedom from harassment, access to pensions, paid leave and opportunities for skills development.

Ghanaian artist transforms waste into world-record handbag project

She further stressed that recognition in many workplaces is often influenced by political ties, personal relationships or visibility rather than actual performance and contribution.

According to her, women, junior staff, persons with disabilities and workers in rural or less visible roles are frequently overlooked despite their efforts.

She warned that when workers feel undervalued, productivity declines, trust weakens and workplace conflict increases.

On meritocracy, Dr Ofei-Aboagye said recruitment and promotion systems must become more transparent and competence-based, adding that advancement should not depend on who one knows.

She criticised the culture where seniority is mistaken for competence and where professional spaces are tightly guarded against younger entrants.

“Merit cannot flourish without equitable opportunities for people to be seen, to progress and to be recognised,” she said.

Using the example of a girl born in a remote Ghanaian village, she explained how poverty, limited education access and unfair systems can restrict potential from an early age.

She said when families have stable incomes and girls receive recognition through mentorship, scholarships and encouragement, their chances of success improve significantly.

Dr Ofei-Aboagye called on government to strengthen labour regulations, expand social protection and invest in technical and digital skills.

She also urged employers to ensure safe workplaces, fair promotion systems and protection against abuse and exploitation.

Educational institutions, labour unions, the private sector and individuals, she said, all have roles to play in building a culture of fairness, dignity and service.

@accracitynews

‘Workers should rise not by chance but through the quality of their work – Dr Esther Ofei-Aboagye

♬ original sound - Accra City News

Ibrahim Mahama thanks ex-president Akufo-Addo for his role in Damang Mine takeover deal