Ghana's Strategic Shift in Midweek Holidays Gains Expert Approval
In a groundbreaking move to boost national productivity, Ghana’s Parliament has passed the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days (Amendment) Bill, 2025. This unprecedented legislation empowers the President to shift midweek public holidays to the preceding Monday or the following Friday. Advocates, including Dr. Aron Kumah, a prominent labour expert from the Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (AAMUSTED) in Kumasi, are heralding this decision as a pivotal step towards increased efficiency.
The Rationale Behind the Shift
Dr. Kumah’s insights highlight the common workplace phenomenon where midweek holidays disrupt the momentum of the workweek, leading to reduced productivity. “When holidays fall on a Tuesday or Wednesday, many workers take the extended time to recharge. This often results in fatigue and diminished productivity upon their return to work,” he noted. The new legislation aims to address these inefficiencies, ensuring that the nation’s workforce remains energetic and focused.
Political Harmony and Public Support
The amendment reportedly enjoys broad bipartisan support, with both the Majority and Minority in Parliament backing the change. Dr. Kumah emphasized the importance of national unity in supporting this initiative: “We must all lend our voices to support it, so that future governments don’t reverse this good policy.”
Learning from Global Practices
Ghana joins a cohort of forward-looking nations, such as China, that have already adopted similar strategies. By rescheduling holidays to optimize productivity during critical economic periods, these countries prioritize national growth. “It’s a practical approach we can learn from,” Dr. Kumah affirmed.
New Additions and Traditional Recognitions
In addition to adjusting midweek holidays, the bill also reestablishes July 1 as Republic Day and introduces a new Muslim holiday, Shaqq Day, the day after Eid-ul-Fitr. This change not only acknowledges Ghana’s history but also caters to its cultural diversity. Meanwhile, August 4 has been repealed as Founders’ Day, with September 21 reinstated to honor Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President.
The Call for Policy Consistency
Dr. Kumah’s parting words were a rallying cry for consistency and long-term vision. He urged policymakers to ensure that beneficial policies, like the new holiday adjustments, remain stable. “Frequent reversals discourage growth and continuity,” he said, emphasizing the need for steadfast policies that propel the nation forward.
As Ghana embraces this strategic shift, the next steps will involve implementation and monitoring to measure the impact on national productivity. According to Adomonline.com, this initiative could set a precedent for other nations to consider similar adjustments in their holiday policies.
