The Ghanaian-European Centre for Jobs, Migration and Development, in partnership with key government agencies, has announced the launch of the Ghana Career and Migration Fair 2024 in a bid to address the pressing issue of youth unemployment in Ghana.
Scheduled to take place on October 16 and 17 in Kumasi, the event aims to equip young Ghanaians with the necessary tools and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market.
With Ghana currently facing a youth unemployment rate of approximately 14.7%, the fair comes at a crucial time to provide support and opportunities for over 1.3 million unemployed young people aged 15 to 35.
Particularly focusing on vulnerable groups such as females, who experience higher unemployment rates, the fair seeks to bridge the gap between job seekers and available opportunities.
Andreas Berding, Head of the Ghanaian-European Centre, noted that initiatives like the Job and Career Fair are very important in empowering the youth.
He said the event will focus on digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and skilled migration as key pillars of support for the attendees.
Mr. Berding further indicated that, since its inception in 2019, the Ghana Career and Migration Fair has made a significant impact by linking over 16,891 job seekers with 413 employers, leading to the filling of more than 1,258 job vacancies.
“As we launch this year’s fair, we are confident that it will continue to serve as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change in the lives of our young people”, he said.
The Ghanaian-European Centre, supported by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development and co-funded by the European Union, has played a crucial role in fostering connections and providing vital resources for career development.
Arnold Asafu-Adjaye, the Project Manager for Wealth and Jobs Agency, stated the significant unemployment rate in the nation and stressed the urgent need for action to prevent potential national security implications.
He emphasized the importance of the upcoming Ghana Career and Migration Fair, scheduled for October 16 and 17, 2024, as a key initiative to address the unemployment rate effectively.
Frederick Abakah, the Deputy Chief Labour Officer at the Labour Department, also expressed concern about the unemployment crisis and praised the Career and Migration Fair as a pivotal step in combating the issue.
Mr. Jeffery Oppong Peprah, the Chief Executive Officer of VOLKSWAGEN GHANA and Vice President of the Africa Automotive Manufacturers Association, expressed their commitment to advancing the Auto Industry in Ghana and stressed the importance of skill development among the youth.
Bebrehene Nana Kyerematen Kusi Obuodum, representing Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II as the Guest of Honour, commended the organizers of the Fair and encouraged the youth to seize the opportunities it presents.
