In a bold move to address unemployment and provide safer migration opportunities, the Minister of Labour, Jobs, and Employment, Dr. Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, has unveiled the Ghana Work Abroad Program. This initiative, launched in partnership with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), aims to place skilled Ghanaian workers in well-regulated jobs overseas, ensuring legal protection and fair employment conditions.
At the launch event held at La Palm Beach Hotel in Accra, Dr. Pelpuo highlighted the program’s potential to transform lives and boost Ghana’s economy.
“This is not just about jobs; it’s about securing a better future for our youth. Many young Ghanaians struggle to find stable employment, and some resort to risky migration routes. With this program, we are providing a safe, structured, and government-backed pathway to work abroad,” he stated.
The initiative targets various industries, including construction, hospitality, agriculture, transportation, and artisanship. Successful applicants will undergo training in Romania before being placed in ethical, monitored employment opportunities abroad. The government has also pledged strict oversight and bilateral agreements with host countries to ensure workers receive fair wages, proper legal protections, and social benefits.
For many young professionals, this initiative represents a new lease on life. Kwame Asare, a welder from Kumasi, expressed optimism about the program:
“Finding consistent work has been difficult. This opportunity means I can earn, save, and support my family without taking dangerous migration risks.”
Ghana has seen a rise in irregular migration, with many young people undertaking dangerous journeys in search of better opportunities. The Ghana Work Abroad Program provides a regulated alternative, reducing the risk of human trafficking and exploitation.
The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) will oversee applicant registration and training, ensuring that candidates are well-prepared for their new roles abroad. CEO of YEA, Mr. Malik Basintale, underscored the program’s long-term vision:
“This is more than just sending people abroad; it’s about equipping them with the right skills and ensuring they return with valuable experience that benefits Ghana’s economy.”
The initiative has secured strong backing from international partners, including the European Union (EU), GIZ, IOM, ICMPD, and the International Labour Organization (ILO). Additionally, inter-ministerial and technical committees have been set up to ensure smooth policy implementation and coordination.
As the program rolls out, it signals a new era in Ghana’s employment strategy, offering structured opportunities for youth while addressing the root causes of irregular migration and job scarcity.
For many, the Ghana Work Abroad Program is not just about employment—it’s a chance to build a better future.
