The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) is preparing to implement a performance-based pay system for public sector employees, shifting away from the traditional approach that rewards promotions based solely on years of service.
Ing. Benjamin Arthur, CEO of the FWSC, shared this development during a media gathering in Accra on Monday, themed “FWSC: Connection with the Media.”
“We are collaborating with stakeholders to align compensation with productivity, and so far, we have engaged nine institutions,” Ing. Arthur said, highlighting the Commission’s dedication to promoting fairness and efficiency in public sector remuneration.
The FWSC, which oversees salaries and benefits for public servants funded by the Consolidated Fund, has already accomplished several significant milestones. These include implementing the Single Spine Salary Structure to standardize pay and mitigate wage disparities.
Notable achievements this year include saving GH¢345 million through nationwide payroll monitoring, completing negotiations with 44 unions and institutions, and transitioning seven institutions to a new grading structure. The Commission also acknowledged the crucial role of whistle-blowers in uncovering irregularities and promoting greater accountability in the public sector.
Regarding challenges, Ing. Arthur pointed out that the pay of Article 71 officeholders is outside the Commission’s jurisdiction, highlighting the need for a constitutional review.
He also mentioned the difficulty in managing industrial actions, particularly during election periods, noting that 14 strikes this year had been successfully resolved.
The CEO called on the media and stakeholders to support these reforms, emphasizing that linking pay to performance would enhance productivity and improve service delivery in the public sector.
