The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) has launched a 16-day Job and Entrepreneurship Fair, in collaboration with the Ghana Report Summit, to provide young Ghanaians with essential skills and employment opportunities.

Held at the Independence Square in Accra, the event brings together stakeholders from various industries, training institutions, and government agencies.

Empowering Youth Through Skills Training

Speaking on behalf of YEA CEO Kofi Baah Agyepong, Deputy CEO Alhaj Ibrahim Bashiru highlighted the agency’s ongoing commitment to tackling youth unemployment.

He noted that YEA has recruited 137,092 beneficiaries through various programs over the past two years, including 6,028 Community Health Workers and 15,000 Community Protection Assistants.

Revitalizing the Artisanal Sector

Bashiru also underscored YEA’s efforts to revamp Ghana’s artisanal sector in response to competition from neighbouring countries and technological advances. YEA is providing training in 10 craft areas such as carpentry, plumbing, and welding to secure the future of the industry.

Key Partnerships and Digital Initiatives

YEA has partnered with organizations including the German Development Agency (GIZ) and the Ghana National Tailors and Dressmakers Association to establish a Skills and Fashion Hub.

Additionally, the fair offers rapid skills training in areas like detergent making and baking, alongside digital skills training in coding, robotics, and digital marketing.

Launch of GhArtisan APP

YEA is also set to launch the GhArtisan APP, a free mobile platform that connects artisans with job opportunities and the general public.

A Call to Action

Bashiru urged graduates to lead industry transformation, innovate, and continuously build their capacities, assuring them of YEA’s support along their entrepreneurial journey.

Positive Stakeholder Feedback

Rashida Saani, CEO of the I-ZAR group, praised the fair, calling it “a great opportunity for young entrepreneurs to showcase their talents.”

Deputy Employment Minister Ekow Assafuah commended YEA’s dedication, stating that the government remains committed to creating jobs for Ghanaian youth.