Ghana has officially kicked off the first phase of its Work Abroad Programme, with Romania being the initial destination for skilled workers. This groundbreaking initiative, spearheaded by the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) in partnership with the Ghanaian-European Centre and European labor institutions, aims to offer structured employment opportunities that guarantee fair wages and safe working conditions.
During the launch event on March 18, 2025, YEA Chief Executive Officer Malik Basintale addressed concerns regarding potential brain drain resulting from the programme. Basintale emphasized that the initiative is designed to equip Ghanaian workers with valuable international experience, which can ultimately contribute to the country’s economic development upon their return.
Andreas Bingen, Head of the Ghanaian-European Centre, hailed the programme as a significant step towards promoting labor mobility and legal migration for Ghanaians. He highlighted that the initiative goes beyond just providing employment opportunities abroad, emphasizing the creation of dignified work opportunities that not only strengthen Ghana’s economy but also foster international partnerships.
Furthermore, the programme aims to align with global labor migration trends by offering young professionals access to legal and structured employment opportunities overseas. This approach ensures that Ghanaian workers can gain essential experience while positioning Ghana as a reliable source of skilled labor for European industries.
Romania, the chosen destination for the programme’s first phase, expressed readiness to welcome Ghanaian workers with open arms. Andre Petru Marin, General Manager of Structural Precision SRL in Romania, assured that all necessary arrangements have been made to facilitate a seamless transition for Ghanaian workers. Upon arrival, workers will receive accommodation, additional training, competitive wages, and opportunities for career advancement.
Moreover, the historical ties between Ghana and Romania were highlighted, particularly the role Romanian engineers played in Ghana’s infrastructure development during Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s administration. This shared history underscores the potential for a strong partnership in the current Work Abroad Programme.
Minister for Labour, Jobs, and Employment, Dr. Rashid Pelpuo, underscored the programme’s importance in addressing irregular migration and youth unemployment. By providing a structured and lawful pathway for Ghanaians to access global job markets, the programme offers a safe alternative to risky irregular migration routes.
To ensure the success and transparency of the programme, the government plans to closely monitor and regulate the process, preventing the exploitation of Ghanaian workers abroad. Dr. Pelpuo also highlighted the positive impact of remittances from Ghanaian workers overseas on families, businesses, and the national economy.
The Training and Registration process for the programme will be conducted by the Management Development and Productivity Institute (MDPI), equipping selected applicants with the necessary skills to excel in their new roles. Interested applicants can apply through an online registration portal, with selection criteria based on clear eligibility requirements.
In conclusion, the Work Abroad Programme represents a significant opportunity for Ghanaian workers to gain international experience, contribute to the country’s economic development, and forge stronger partnerships with European industries. This initiative not only provides a pathway for legal and organized migration but also showcases Ghana’s potential as a source of skilled labor on the global stage.
