Improving Working Conditions: Permanent Struggle

As Cameroon joins the rest of the world to celebrate 140th edition of the International Labour Day, on May 1, workers continue to clamour for good working conditions, decent salaries/wages and of course, a conducive working environment. The work environment; either physical or virtual is symbiotically related to the workers’ performance and productivity as one depends on the other. A plethora of scholarly articles show that a good and favourable work environment boosts productivity, morale, and supports retention. The work environment, which is the space reserved for employees to carry out their respective assigned tasks can create a positive or negative impact on the workers’ state of mind and performance. To Dr Kennedy Tumenta, an economist, “the modern workspace is far more than a physical location; it is a psychological ecosystem that either fuels or stifles economic potential.” The economist posits that in the rapidly evolving knowledge economy; the work place must be viewed as a strategic asset where the “mental infrastructure” is just as vital as the physical tools. A good working environment should typically have respect and inclusivity where everyone feels valued and heard through clear communication. It should also provide growth opportunities and space to learn, innovate, and advance while also supporting personnel wellbeing and recognition of hard work. Dr Tumenta adds that a work environment should be characterized by fairness-where meritocracy and ethical standards are transparent- serves as foundation for high employee retention rates. “When workers perceive a just and equitable climate, their state of mind shifts from cautions preservation to active contribution. This sense of security is the ultimate catalyst for loyalty, ensuring that intellectual capital remains within the organisation rather than seeking more appreciative environments,” he elucidates. According to a Labour expert, Yvette Lyonga, who is serving as the South West Regional Delegate of Labour and Social Security, the way the work environment is, can create a positive or negative impact in an institution. “The positive impact is demonstrated through decent work and social dialogue. When there exist effective communication and negotiation between workers, employees, and the government, it easily gives rise to decent work, which can determine the state of mind of workers,” she opined. She further explained that by decent work, it entails fair pay packages with respect to existing legislation, social security for all workers, hygiene and safety put in place in an establishment. “With all these measures, workers end up with a positive state of mind free from stress and tension which in turn boost productivity, improve investments, and above all, develop the economy of the country,” she underscored. The labour expert adds that...