When Nana Kwasi Boatey took the helm as Managing Director of Ghana Publishing Company, he faced a daunting challenge. The company's bank account held just GH¢400,000, and January salaries could only be paid through an overdraft. But rather than resorting to layoffs, Boatey saw an opportunity to reimagine how the company could operate.

Within three weeks of assuming leadership, the management team made a bold decision that would change everything. They introduced a two-shift system with night operations, inspired by the government's 24-hour economy policy. This wasn't just about keeping the lights on longer. It was about maximizing the potential of their workforce and proving that innovation could save jobs rather than eliminate them.

"Without that decision, about 100 workers would have been laid off," Boatey shared during a recent visit by President John Dramani Mahama. "In my view, it turned out to be the best decision for this company."

The results speak volumes about what's possible when leadership chooses creativity over cuts. Government gazettes that previously took eight weeks to produce now roll off the presses in just three weeks. Even more impressive, the company introduced an express 24-hour gazette service, where documents submitted one day are ready the next. This kind of efficiency doesn't just look good on paper. It translates directly into better service for citizens and more revenue opportunities for the company.

The financial transformation has been nothing short of extraordinary. In December, just ten months after implementing the reforms, the company paid employees a 13th-month salary without needing to borrow a single cedi. They've committed to a generous 40% salary increase for staff, rewarding the workers whose dedication made this turnaround possible.

Perhaps the most striking indicator of success is the company's ability to place GH¢15 million in a fixed deposit account. From barely scraping by to having substantial savings represents a complete reversal of fortune, and it happened in less than a year.

The Ripple Effect

The improvements at Ghana Publishing Company demonstrate how innovative thinking can create waves of positive change. The 100 employees who kept their jobs continue supporting their families and contributing to their communities. The enhanced efficiency means government and citizens receive better, faster service. The financial stability has enabled investment in new infrastructure, including a fully equipped digital press centre that positions the company for continued growth.

This success story also showcases how the 24-hour economy concept can work in practice. By maximizing existing resources and rethinking traditional work schedules, the company found a path forward that benefited everyone involved. Workers kept their livelihoods, gained raises, and received bonuses. Customers got dramatically improved service. And the company evolved from financial distress to stability and growth.

Boatey's leadership proves that with vision and courage, struggling organizations can not only survive but thrive, creating opportunities rather than cutting them.