By Philip Antoh
The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with CAMFED Ghana to support deprived girls and Persons with disabilities (PWDs) by creating decent job opportunities throughout the country.
During the signing ceremony, YEA CEO Mr. Malik Basintale highlighted that more females than males participated in the recent BECE, marking a positive change from previous trends.
“CAMFED has provided many benefits, particularly in my region, and all of this shows that CAMFED is active. Therefore, we find it essential to collaborate with them to develop the country together,” he stated.
Mr. Basintale emphasized that YEA focuses on job opportunities for women and has designed initiatives specifically for PWDs, making this partnership a perfect match.
He announced the forthcoming launch of the “Agriculture for Disability” program, which will train PWDs in catfish farming to encourage self-sufficiency and decrease street begging.
Mr. Basintale expressed his appreciation for the partnership, stating it would assist young women and PWDs in accessing employment opportunities.
“Together, I believe in the words of President John Dramani Mahama, that we will build the Ghana we desire. Let’s take this initiative to ensure that girls and PWDs are actively engaged with the YEA in decent jobs,” he concluded.
Ms. Fairuza Abdul-Rashid Safian, the Executive Director of CAMFED Ghana, stated that the partnership will enhance skills training for women, leading to improved employment and sustainable livelihoods.
The initiative also seeks to boost female involvement in traditionally male-dominated sectors, exchange best practices, and ensure child protection and safety in youth training programs.
“I firmly believe that CAMFED’s collaboration with YEA will help tackle the emerging challenges of employment and sustainable livelihoods faced by Ghanaian youth,” she expressed.
Ms. Safian mentioned that the partnership is designed to economically empower beneficiaries, allowing them to support themselves, their families, and their communities.
“Our goal is to instill a spirit of giving back in them. When they achieve economic empowerment, they can contribute to their societies, paving the way for a brighter future for Ghana’s children,” she remarked.
Ms. Safian emphasized that CAMFED values partnerships with the government, as they believe that supporting girls positively impacts families and society as a whole.
She elaborated that CAMFED offers educational scholarships and assists beneficiaries in transitioning to employment or further education.
“For those who wish to enter the workforce directly after secondary school, YEA is there to assist us. Even for those pursuing further education, YEA will continue to support us when they graduate,” she noted.
Ms. Safian highlighted that CAMFED focuses on aiding the needy, the voiceless, and those often overlooked in rural communities.