Although the new government’s 24-hour Economy policy is not fully operational, its fever is catching up with some businesses in the country.
One company in the country’s automobile sector, Universal Motors Limited – the sole distributor of Volkswagen has taken a bold step to align its operations to the government’s vision for a 24-hour economy.
Even before the modalities for the policy are made known, Universal Motors has announced new operating hours to better serve its customers and increase its productivity and efficiency.
The company says instead of the normal 8-hour shift, it is now operating a 13-hour shift system. The company will now operate from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekdays and from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Saturdays.
Universal Motors confirms that this new change is in alignment with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of a 24-hour economy.
“As we align with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of a 24-hour working Ghana, we bring to you a 13-hour shift schedule,” Universal Motors announced in a notice to the public.
The 24-hour economy is a flagship policy of the new John Dramani Mahama government. The idea states that the policy will ensure that some sectors of the economy will operate multiple shifts to boost economic growth, maximize resource utilization, and create more jobs for the teaming unemployed youth.
The government says private companies that join the policy will receive a number of incentives to boost their operations.
Although the President is still in the process of forming his government, one of the earlier appointments he made to the Presidency was a 24-hour economy adviser. Augustus Goosie Tannoh, a known party figure was appointed as the Presidential Advisor Responsible for the 24-hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development.
As Universal Motors’ decision signals its readiness to adapt to changing times and play a role in Ghana’s journey toward becoming a fully functional 24-hour economy, it is anticipated other businesses hop on to the policy to help the government achieve its vision.
