HR Professionals urged to embrace innovation to drive productivity

Ghanaian Human Resource (HR) professionals are being called upon to embrace strategic leadership and innovation to drive productivity amidst a rapidly evolving global economy. The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, emphasized that HR practitioners must transcend traditional administrative functions and actively contribute to organizational growth.

Speaking at the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management (CIHRM) 2026 conference, Director of Pre-Tertiary Education, Mr. Stephen Owusu, who delivered the minister's speech, stated that leadership, technology, and governance are essential pillars for advancing HR excellence. He stressed that strong leadership provides the necessary vision and direction to navigate complex business environments, ultimately fostering resilient and future-ready institutions.

Adding to the call for transformation, Ms. Esi Wilson, Chief HR Officer at MTN Ghana, urged professionals to lead the charge in preparing organizations and employees for the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital transformation. Citing the World Economic Forum's 2025 Future of Jobs Report, she highlighted that significant labor market disruptions are projected by 2030, with millions of new roles emerging. Wilson stressed the importance of investing in reskilling, digital literacy, and adaptive talent strategies, alongside responsible AI adoption through sound governance and ethical practices. HR practitioners, she concluded, must position themselves as leaders of this transformation, creating workplaces where employees can thrive in a technology-driven future.

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The question is no longer whether AI will transform work. It already has. The real question is whether our people and organisations are ready to lead that transformation.