Professor Ransford Edward Gyampo, a distinguished Professor of Political Science at the University of Ghana, has drawn attention to the stark disparity between his monthly salary as a professor in Ghana and the earnings of a cleaner in Saudi Arabia. During a discussion on TV3’s The Key Points, Professor Gyampo recounted his experiences in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the significant contrast in remuneration between the two countries.
The professor revealed that in Saudi Arabia, even a cleaner earns a minimum monthly salary of $1000, a figure that surpasses his own earnings as a university professor in Ghana. He expressed astonishment at the discrepancy, emphasizing that the cleaner's wage in Saudi Arabia far exceeded his own as an academic in Ghana. Furthermore, he noted that in Saudi Arabia, workers do not have to pay taxes, as the government utilizes revenue from oil to cover public services and amenities.
In addition to the substantial salary, Professor Gyampo highlighted the complementary benefits enjoyed by workers in Saudi Arabia, including accommodation with no additional charges for utilities such as electricity and water. These revelations shed light on the vast disparities in working conditions and remuneration between the two countries.
This disclosure comes amidst ongoing concerns raised by teacher unions in Ghana regarding inadequate working conditions and low pay. The unions have persistently voiced their discontent with the government's handling of educators' remuneration, leading to several instances of industrial action in protest.
The comparative analysis provided by Professor Gyampo underscores the pressing need for improved remuneration and working conditions for educators and professionals in Ghana. It also serves as a catalyst for broader discussions on the equitable distribution of resources and the enhancement of the welfare of workers in the country.
As the disparity in earnings between countries continues to be a focal point of concern, Professor Gyampo's revelations have brought to the forefront the urgency of addressing the challenges faced by educators and workers in Ghana. It is imperative that policymakers and stakeholders take heed of these disparities and work towards implementing measures to improve the livelihoods of professionals in the country.
