A recent study reveals 96% of Ghanaian pensioners are willing to work beyond the mandatory retirement age. This significant finding highlights a gap between retirees' desire to remain productive and available engagement structures.
The Centre for Retired Experts (CREX) conducted this study in February 2026. It aimed to understand how retirees could continue contributing to national productivity. The research involved 559 pensioners across Ghana.
This willingness to work beyond retirement fits into Ghana's broader economic narrative of human capital development. The nation faces challenges in fully utilising its skilled workforce. This includes experienced professionals who leave formal employment. The study suggests a valuable, untapped resource for economic growth and mentorship.
Dr. Adam Salifu, a co-researcher from the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), presented the findings. He stated that nearly all respondents, 98%, were willing to register on a structured platform for retirees. However, 93% were unaware of any such existing platform. Dr. Salifu emphasised, "The problem is about coordination and not willingness."
The findings imply that Ghana's economy could benefit significantly from better coordination mechanisms. Policymakers and institutions must consider creating platforms to harness this expertise. This could lead to new avenues for national development and skill transfer. Markets might respond positively to increased productivity from this demographic.
The study also found that 86% of respondents rejected the idea that retirement reduced their usefulness. Approximately 87% still considered themselves vital for national development. This strong sense of purpose goes beyond financial incentives. Only 14% cited income supplementation as a primary motivation for post-retirement work.
Instead, retirees were more interested in remaining mentally active and contributing to society. This indicates a non-monetary value proposition for engaging older professionals. It suggests that volunteer or advisory roles could be highly effective.
A significant 97% of respondents agreed there was a gap. This gap exists between retirees' potential and systems to engage them productively. This highlights a systemic issue that requires urgent attention from government and private sector entities.
More than 50% of respondents preferred extending the retirement age to 65 years or beyond. This suggests many consider the current mandatory retirement age of 60 too early. This preference could inform future policy discussions on retirement age reforms.
The study also assessed the well-being of these experienced individuals. More than 95% reported stable physical and mental conditions. This confirms their capacity to remain active and productive. Dr. Salifu noted this does not automatically mean financial stability, but it confirms their physical readiness.
Only about one in five retirees remained professionally active after retirement. Most others engaged in religious, social, community, and family activities. This shows a large segment of the retired population is not professionally engaged. Their skills and experience are currently underutilised.
Retirees showed significant availability for post-retirement work. About 98% were willing to volunteer if transport and meals were provided. More than 84% could commit one to four hours daily. Over 90% could work one to four days weekly. This flexibility makes them ideal for various roles.
Preferred sectors for engagement included governance and development activities, each attracting 21% of respondents. Business and education also showed strong interest. Agriculture and health recorded lower preferences. This indicates where their expertise is most aligned.
Dr. Salifu attributed lower preference for agriculture to its labour-intensive nature. He also cited limited mechanisation in the sector. The composition of the sample might have influenced health sector responses. These insights can guide targeted engagement strategies.
The study found 90% were willing to mentor young professionals. Also, 88% were willing to serve as advisers. A remarkable 98% were willing to work in rural and deprived communities. This willingness to serve in underserved areas is particularly valuable for national development.
Dr. Salifu concluded that Ghana possesses a substantial pool of experienced human capital. This capital could be deployed for national development. This requires establishing appropriate institutional mechanisms. The research dissemination event also launched a national initiative. This initiative aims to redefine retirement. It shifts from an end-of-career mindset to one of leadership and mentorship.