The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) has taken another significant step in expanding international employment opportunities for Ghanaian youth through its Labour Exchange Programme, formerly known as the YEA Work Abroad Programme, with selected beneficiaries departing for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to begin employment in the hospitality industry.
The beneficiaries are set to work with internationally recognized brands including KFC, Pizza Hut, and Hardee’s under a two-year employment contract, providing them with valuable international work experience, professional development opportunities, and sustainable sources of income.
The initiative forms part of YEA’s broader strategy to create innovative and sustainable employment pathways for young people by connecting qualified Ghanaian youth to opportunities beyond the country’s borders.
Prior to their departure, the Agency organized a pre-departure orientation session at its headquarters to prepare beneficiaries for their transition and equip them with guidance on workplace expectations, cultural adaptation, professionalism, and personal conduct while abroad.
Addressing the beneficiaries during the orientation, the Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency, Malik Basintale, expressed appreciation to the selected candidates for placing their confidence and trust in the Agency’s initiative.
He congratulated them on the opportunity and encouraged them to serve as good ambassadors of Ghana by demonstrating discipline, professionalism, and dedication in their respective workplaces.
Mr. Basintale advised the beneficiaries to respect the rules and regulations governing their employment and remain focused on achieving both their personal and professional aspirations during their stay in the UAE.
“This opportunity is not only about employment but also about personal growth, exposure, and representing Ghana positively on the international stage. We encourage all beneficiaries to remain disciplined, hardworking, and committed to excellence,” he stated.
The CEO further assured the beneficiaries that the Agency remains committed to their welfare and wellbeing throughout the duration of the programme.
According to him, YEA will maintain regular communication with participants and provide the necessary support whenever required to ensure their successful transition and overall wellbeing while abroad.
He emphasized that the Labour Exchange Programme reflects the Agency’s determination to explore global employment opportunities capable of empowering Ghanaian youth and reducing unemployment through strategic international partnerships.
The programme continues to create pathways for young people to gain international work exposure, build valuable skills, and improve their economic prospects while contributing positively to the global workforce.
Management of the Agency also encouraged beneficiaries to take advantage of the experience to develop themselves professionally, broaden their perspectives, and return with valuable knowledge and expertise that can contribute to national development.
The departure of the beneficiaries marks another milestone in the implementation of the Labour Exchange Programme and underscores the Agency’s commitment to delivering practical employment solutions for the youth.
Through initiatives such as this, the Youth Employment Agency continues to position itself as a leading institution dedicated to creating sustainable job opportunities, promoting skills development, and expanding access to both local and international employment opportunities for young Ghanaians.
The Agency remains focused on its vision of ensuring “Jobs4All” while empowering the youth to compete and succeed in an increasingly globalized economy.
