The Government of Ghana has deployed 121 health professionals to Antigua in the Caribbean under the Ghana Labour Exchange Programme, as part of broader efforts to reduce unemployment among the youth and professionals.
The three-year exchange programme, which is renewable, falls under the President’s Special Initiative and is designed to create sustainable employment opportunities for Ghanaians while strengthening international cooperation in critical sectors such as healthcare.
The deployment fulfils one of the key promises made by President John Dramani Mahama ahead of the 2024 presidential election to expand job opportunities for Ghanaians beyond the country’s borders through structured labour export arrangements.
Addressing the beneficiaries ahead of their departure, the Minister at the Presidency in charge of the President’s Special Initiative, Emmanuel Agyekum, reaffirmed government’s commitment to exploring global opportunities to secure decent and sustainable jobs for Ghanaians across various skill levels.
“There are so many opportunities in the world, and we will make sure we explore them and get to the bottom of it,” Mr Agyekum said.
“Whether you are a carpenter, mason, plumber or a health professional, we will get a job for you.”
He noted that the Ghana Labour Exchange Programme is not limited to the health sector, but forms part of a wider strategy to position Ghanaian skills competitively on the global market, while reducing unemployment at home.
The beneficiaries, made up of various categories of health professionals, are expected to support Antigua’s healthcare system while gaining international exposure, enhanced skills, and improved earning opportunities.
Government officials say similar labour exchange agreements with other countries are being pursued as part of the administration’s broader jobs and economic reset agenda.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
