The Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment has introduced the “Work Abroad Programme,” an initiative spearheaded by the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), aimed at facilitating the migration of Ghana's skilled labor force to international job markets. Officially launched in Accra, this program seeks to create structured and legal pathways for Ghanaian artisans and workers in sectors such as hospitality, transportation, agriculture, and construction to secure employment opportunities abroad.

Dr. Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, the Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, emphasized that this initiative is a direct response to the government's commitment to reducing youth unemployment, a key promise made during the 2024 election campaign. According to Dr. Pelpuo, the program underscores the government's dedication to empowering Ghanaian youth by providing them with access to global opportunities through a well-organized and sustainable framework for labor migration.

The Work Abroad Programme is designed to combat irregular migration and ensure that fair recruitment practices are upheld. It also aims to maximize the economic benefits derived from remittances sent back to Ghana, thereby contributing to the country’s overall economic development. The application process involves an online portal where prospective candidates will be screened. Companies seeking to recruit Ghanaian workers will be required to enter into formal agreements with both Ghana and the destination countries, ensuring the rights and protection of Ghanaian workers throughout their employment.

Selected workers will undergo comprehensive pre-departure training, focusing on their rights as employees, cultural adaptation strategies, and professional skills development. This training is intended to enhance their competitiveness in the global market and equip them with the necessary tools to navigate international work environments effectively. Dr. Pelpuo has pledged to ensure the welfare and respect of Ghanaian workers abroad, with a zero-tolerance stance against any form of mistreatment or unjust punishment.

Malik Basintale, the Chief Executive Officer of YEA, described the program as a transformative initiative that has the potential to significantly improve the lives of Ghanaian youth and establish Ghana as a leading source of skilled and ethical labor. YEA plans to establish an inter-ministerial working committee to ensure the effective management and long-term sustainability of the program. This committee will oversee various aspects, including legal aid, psychosocial support, and reintegration services, to protect the interests and well-being of Ghanaian workers abroad.

Dr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong, Chairman of the Work Abroad Programme and Chairman of the Special Groups of Companies, lauded the ministry for developing this initiative, highlighting the opportunities it provides for the youth to earn decent incomes, gain international exposure, and eventually return to Ghana to create opportunities for others.

The YEA is actively calling on all stakeholders in both the public and private sectors to collaborate in rolling out this transformative program, with the shared vision of Ghanaian workers setting the benchmark for excellence in international labor markets through structured partnerships.