By Kizito CUDJOE
The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) has successfully recruited 282 persons with disabilities (PWDs) for pivotal roles as Regional and District Disability Desk Officers in a move toward fostering inclusivity.
This transformative initiative, disclosed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Kofi Agyepong, not only echoes the principles of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8 but firmly underscores the YEA’s unwavering commitment to a sustained increase in PWDs recruitment.
In line with SDG 8, which champions inclusive economic growth and full, productive employment for all, the YEA’s strategic move aligns with the global pursuit of equal opportunities, including for individuals with disabilities and the establishment of equal pay for work of equal value.
Mr. Agyepong, articulating the essence of this milestone, emphasised the pivotal role played by disability inclusion in shaping policies, laws and services, thereby contributing to a sustainable and inclusive trajectory of societal development.
The recruitment initiative not only signals the YEA’s dedication to diversity but also positions it as a trailblazer in the global pursuit of inclusive and sustainable employment practices.
According to Mr. Agyepong, the commitment to a long-term strategy for increasing PWDs recruitment reaffirms the agency’s mission to be at the forefront of progressive employment policies.
Speaking at a press conference at YEA’s headquarters in Accra, he said: “What we have achieved so far is unprecedented, but our plans for future recruitment are even more ambitious. We’ve laid the foundation today and are poised for substantial expansion”.
Underlining the agency’s crucial role in providing employment opportunities for Ghanaian youth amid economic uncertainties, Agyepong also shed light on the challenges faced by former tollbooth workers following the government’s decision to suspend road toll collection.
He acknowledged the significant impact this decision had on over 200 PWDs, who lost their livelihoods and faced hardships. Of this number, 99 are part of the new recruits of YEA.
“This employment affords them not only a sense of pride and financial stability, but also positions of influence where they can contribute meaningfully to policy formulation and implementation concerning disability rights,” he stated.
Furthermore, he disclosed that the agency is committed to ensuring the social security and welfare of these employees, including the payment of relevant statutory contributions. “They will enjoy the same economic benefits and privileges as any other government employee, ensuring their financial security and stability,” he added.
“In addressing the needs of individuals without basic qualifications, the Youth Employment Agency has developed alternative pathways through impactful programmes such as the Business and Employment Assistance Programme (BEAP), Youth in Skills training, and our garment and textile training initiative under the Garment and Textile module,” he said.
The President of CEPD, Alexander Kojo Tetteh, commended YEA for its initiative, noting its potential to inspire PWDs to excel and actively participate in shaping agency programmes and projects.
