Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Gideon Nicholas Day
Published on 2024-01-26 02:53:16
The Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL) has proposed a change in the retirement age in Ghana, suggesting that individuals should be allowed to work beyond the traditional retirement age of 60 years. Dr. Abraham Koomson, the Executive Secretary of the Federation, shared the rationale behind the proposal in an interview with Accra-based Citi FM.
Dr. Koomson recounted an incident where a retiree, who was still strong and fit, was on the verge of leaving the workforce. This prompted the GFL to initiate discussions with stakeholders and the government to explore the possibility of adjusting the retirement age. He emphasized the need to avoid wasting the valuable knowledge and experience of individuals who are still capable of contributing to the workforce.
However, Dr. Koomson acknowledged that amending the constitution would be necessary to implement the proposed change. He stressed the importance of engaging the government in discussions, as any adjustment to the retirement age requires constitutional amendments, which would take time and thorough deliberation.
Drawing a parallel with the judiciary, Dr. Koomson highlighted that judges often work until the age of seventy, indicating that individuals without health challenges could be capable of contributing to the workforce beyond the traditional retirement age. In 2019, Mr. Kwesi Quartey, Deputy Chairman of the African Union Commission, also emphasized the need for Ghana to reassess its retirement age, citing the valuable knowledge and experience of individuals within that age bracket who remain highly productive.
Several developed countries have already raised their minimum retirement age from 60 to 62 years, and the GFL aims to champion this cause in Ghana. The dialogue with the government is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of retirement policies in the country. As the proposal is being considered, it is essential to recognize the changing demographics and ensure that retirement policies align with the capabilities and contributions of older individuals in the workforce.
Read the original article on Pulse
