The Vital Role of HR Professionals in Ghana’s Industrial Growth and 24-Hour Economy
The Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management, Ghana (CIHRM) has emphasized the critical role of Human Resource (HR) professionals in driving Ghana’s industrial growth, particularly in achieving President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of a 24-hour economy. Dr. Francis Eduku, CEO of CIHRM, underscored that effective people management practices form the bedrock of this ambitious economic policy. The success of a 24-hour economy hinges on developing a workforce equipped to handle round-the-clock operations. This necessitates a shift in talent management strategies, embracing agility, resilience, multi-skilling, and lifelong learning. Dr. Eduku stressed that a 24-hour economy demands a corresponding 24-hour talent model, emphasizing the need for strategic investments in human capital to align with Ghana’s economic aspirations. He argued that technology and infrastructure alone are insufficient for industrial transformation; a skilled and adaptable workforce is paramount. People are the driving force behind productivity and technological advancement, making them the most crucial investment for national development.
HR professionals, according to Dr. Eduku, have transitioned from primarily administrative roles to strategic partners in business and contributors to national progress. Their success should be measured not just at the organizational level but also by their contribution to national development. He urged HR practitioners to align talent development with national priorities, advocate for fair and just labor practices, and prepare the workforce for future challenges. HR professionals are uniquely positioned to design strategies and systems that unlock human potential. This, however, requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government, industry, academia, and civil society. Dr. Eduku characterized HR professionals as visionaries, strategists, and pace-setters, urging them to adopt people-centred approaches to national transformation.
The launch of the Volta/Oti Chapter of CIHRM marked a significant step towards strengthening HR practice in the two regions. The event served as a platform for networking, capacity building, and reaffirming the commitment of HR professionals to drive national change. Themed “HR Professionals; The Pivot of Industrial Growth,” the launch underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to influence Ghana’s development agenda. The new chapter aims to be a hub for knowledge-sharing, ethical leadership, and cross-industry collaboration, bridging the gap between organizational goals and human capital development. The chapter leadership emphasized that their focus will be on practical action, providing a platform for co-creating solutions and shaping the future of work.
The Chairman of the Volta/Oti Chapter highlighted the chapter’s commitment to advancing HR practices through targeted interventions such as workshops, seminars, and public forums that address the evolving landscape of work. Mentorship and career coaching for emerging professionals are prioritized, alongside efforts to promote fairness, innovation, and inclusivity within HR practices. The chapter envisions itself as a dynamic platform for collaborative problem-solving, a “collective sanctuary” where HR professionals can gather to shape the future of work in the region and beyond. This approach moves away from ceremonial activities and towards actionable strategies for professional development and industry advancement.
The leadership of the Volta/Oti Chapter pledged to uphold core values of inclusivity, excellence, and integrity, encouraging active member participation through knowledge-sharing and voluntary contributions. Recognizing the collaborative efforts that led to the chapter’s establishment, special acknowledgement was given to Rev. Dr. Jerry Wedanu, CEO of GILDS Distance Learning Centre, for his mentoring and support, as well as to the national leadership of CIHRM for their guidance. This recognition emphasizes the importance of mentorship and collaborative partnerships in strengthening the HR profession and driving national development goals.
The launch of the Volta/Oti Chapter culminated in a renewed call for HR professionals to embrace continuous learning, people-centred leadership, and active participation in Ghana’s industrial growth and 24-hour economy initiative. The emphasis on continuous learning and adaptation underscores the dynamic nature of the modern workplace and the need for professionals to remain agile and responsive to evolving economic demands. The overall message highlighted the crucial role of HR professionals in ensuring that human capital remains the primary driver of Ghana’s continued national development. The focus on people-centred leadership reinforces the idea that investing in and developing human potential is crucial for achieving national economic aspirations.
