The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr. Abdul Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dominion Leaders Foundation, German BFW, and RETOG to equip the youth with the skills needed to thrive in both local and international job markets.

The MOU is designed as part of a broader effort to promote strong Ghanaian-German vocational cooperation, especially in the construction and related sectors.

In his address, Dr. Hassan Pelpuo emphasised the importance of equipping Ghanaian youth with practical, demand-driven skills essential for the modern workforce.

“This partnership is not merely aspirational; it is imperative,” he said.

He reiterated the importance of a skilled workforce to fulfill the country’s expected infrastructure growth.

According to the minister, Ghana’s recent infrastructure projects have often relied on technical skills sourced from neighboring Togo, which has a historical legacy of German vocational training.

“We must train ourselves again to provide the necessary skills for our development,” he added.

Dr. Pelpuo underlined the importance of forward-looking policy frameworks that promote job creation. As chairperson for the upcoming Ghana-German Construction Day event, he stated his commitment to ensuring that the skills gained through these programs lead to sustainable livelihoods and support of the national economy.

The minister noted that the signing ceremony served as a platform to express gratitude to all 3 partners involved and Ghana’s commitment to technical and vocational education. He added that, “A skilled workforce is a pillar of national prosperity.”

He stated that with the partnership, the government aims to create a more skilled, collaborative, and prosperous workforce, paving the way for a brighter future for generations to come.

On her part, the lead member of the Dominion Leaders Foundation, Ms. Martha Anang, emphasised the importance of sustainability and the need for skilled labour in the global market.

“We are not alone in this endeavour; many organizations are already working on labour and employment issues,” she said.

Miss Anang stated that the goal was to ensure that educated individuals do not face unemployment after completing their schooling.

“The initiative will provide career guidance services and training programs. For instance, individuals trained in catering will have the opportunity to find employment or pursue self-employment, benefiting from a network of interest groups,” she added.

She noted the collaboration extends beyond local institutions, with partnerships established among major organizations and a significant construction association in Germany. She added that students would receive training without tuition fees, along with monthly incomes increasing throughout their education.

Priscilla Osei-Wusu Nimako, ISD