The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) has recruited 282 people living with disabilities (PLWD), including 90 former tollbooth operators.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the YEA, Kofi Agyepong said this was an approach by the government to reduce the high rate of unemployment among PLWD.

In an interview with JoyNews on February 22, he said “They will enjoy the same economic and statutory benefits as any other government employee, ensuring the financial security and stability.”

Mr Agyepong encouraged other state and private entities to emulate this example, stressing the importance of providing more job opportunities for individuals with disabilities, who often encounter limited employment prospects.

“The welfare of those employees includes the payment of relevant statutory contributions. They will enjoy the same economic benefits and privileges as any other government employee, ensuring their financial stability and security.

"The agency is committed to ensuring the social security and welfare of these employees, including the payment of relevant statutory contributions,” he added.

Additionally, he explained that the YEA has implemented various programmes to cater for individuals without qualifications.

These initiatives include the Business and Employment Assistance Programmes, Youth Skills Training, and the Garment and Textile Training Initiative under the Garment and Textile Module.

He expressed gratitude to all partners and collaborators including the Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations, Ministry of Roads and Transport, Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD), and the Centre for Employment of Persons with Disabilities (CEPD) who contributed to the success of this initiative, reaffirming the YEA's unwavering commitment to championing the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities in Ghana.