RENDER A SERVICE

Sir,
       
When one recognises that nothing in one’s life ever happens by accident, one realises the importance of accepting invitations. I was invited to an IPM/FSE&CC Employment Bill Workshop and despite having limited knowledge on the current Employment Act I decided to go.

I would learn whatever was necessary to promote me to the next level. I care for people and their well-being. I believe we are all here to render a service, we cannot be seen to have passed by; we must be seen to have ‘entered’ into the arena and made a difference.

The facilitator was exceptionally learned in his field and most people were engrossed and involved. I observed in awe as the Bill was unpacked and those present who were obviously not only conversant with the current Employment Act but who also had first-hand knowledge and years of experience, as they contributed to the discussions.

I wondered if many realised that their knowledge was priceless in bringing about change in the workplace and throughout the country. It was obvious that the people there were all from Human Resources Departments of the various companies in the country. It dawned on me that these people alone were capable of bringing about the necessary changes that would clearly define what is expected of the parties and how their terms and conditions of employment could best be gazetted.

However, I pondered on whether those various heads of department felt that their ‘work’ ended there. I felt that the workshop was only the beginning for it is imperative that we do not only hold workshops but we follow through ensuring that the laws are changed not only to be at par with the rest of the world but to also ensure fair and reasonable working conditions for all. Simply leaving it to legislators is just not good enough.

Pressure must be brought to bear on the legislators. None of us have the guarantee that we will live for another say, 36 years while we await for the Bill to be passed. The onus is on those who are well versed and who work with the Act to ensure that the necessary changes are made. We have each come to this physical space to render a service.

Are you happy just receiving your pay cheque at the end of the month? What are you doing to improve not only the working conditions of others but to improve their living conditions? It should be borne in mind that when purchasing bread none of us are asked what our professions are so that we pay for same according to how much we earn.

The price is the same for every single person irrespective of how much they earn. Remember any material possessions we have are merely there to facilitate our journey, we are simply caretakers of same and cannot take anything with us when we leave. However, if one can contribute towards positive change in the country no matter in what field, we will be remembered for our contribution towards change. Do the right thing; always do everything in your power to ensure you fulfilled your ‘service’ beyond your pay cheque! Do not leave it to somebody else; you are somebody, you can assist in bringing about the necessary changes.

Inalda Jorge-Antonio
(inaldathegreat@gmail.com ; www.inalda.co.sz )

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