The Government of Ghana has officially launched the first phase of its Work Abroad Programme, an initiative aimed at providing structured employment opportunities for skilled Ghanaian workers in international markets.
The programme, which begins with Romania as the initial destination, is designed to address youth unemployment while offering a legal and organized alternative to irregular migration.
Speaking at the launch on March 18, 2025, Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, Dr. Rashid Pelpuo, emphasized the need for well-regulated labour migration to ensure the safety and welfare of Ghanaian workers abroad.
“The future of labour mobility lies in legal and organized migration. We cannot allow our young people to take life-threatening risks through irregular routes. This programme offers a safe, well-regulated alternative,” he stated.
Dr. Pelpuo assured that the government would closely monitor the programme to ensure transparency and prevent worker exploitation. He also highlighted the economic benefits of remittances, which would support Ghanaian families, businesses, and the national economy.
To prepare workers for their new roles, the Management Development and Productivity Institute (MDPI) will provide pre-departure training for selected applicants.
“This training will equip participants with the necessary skills to adapt to their work environments while maintaining Ghana’s reputation for hard work and discipline,” Dr. Pelpuo added.
The initiative is being spearheaded by the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) in collaboration with the Ghanaian-European Centre and European labour institutions. YEA Chief Executive Officer Malik Basintale dismissed concerns that the programme might lead to brain drain, stating that it would instead equip Ghanaian workers with valuable international experience that could benefit the country’s economy.
“This programme offers our workforce the chance to gain global exposure while making meaningful contributions to Ghana’s economic development upon their return,” he explained.
Andreas Bingen, Head of the Ghanaian-European Centre, described the initiative as a step towards strengthening both Ghana’s economy and international partnerships.
“This initiative is not just about employment abroad; it is about creating dignified work opportunities that benefit both Ghana and its global partners,” he noted.
To streamline participation, the government has introduced an online registration portal, where interested applicants can apply based on set eligibility criteria.
