Malik Basintale says YEA recruited 100,628 youth in 2026

Malik Basintale, the Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), has announced that the agency successfully recruited 100,628 beneficiaries by September 30, 2026. Speaking at the Government Accountability Series at Jubilee House on October 21, Basintale noted that this achievement represents 75.7% of the agency's annual goal of 133,000 recruits. To further support these youth, the agency has implemented a 60% increase in monthly stipends, raising the allowance from GH₵500 to GH₵800. This expansion marks a significant 566% increase in recruitment compared to the previous year.

The agency reported high enrollment rates across various modules, including 98.2% for Community Police Assistants and full capacity for Arabic Instructors. Beyond direct recruitment, YEA’s partnership with North Shore Apparel Ghana Limited in Savelugu has already generated 1,000 jobs, primarily for women and persons with disabilities. The industrial garment production initiative is expected to scale up to 10,000 jobs once the facility is fully operational, addressing local workforce demands and promoting inclusive employment practices.

Looking toward the future, Basintale unveiled the Ghana Women and Youth Employment and Social Cohesion Programme (GWYESCO), supported by US$3.6 million (approximately GH₵44 million) from the African Development Bank. Set to begin recruitment in November 2026, the program targets 11,200 beneficiaries across specialized sectors including hospitality, sustainable transport, and biodigester construction. The initiative is designed to equip participants with skills for the green economy and foster self-employment.

The agency's 2027 strategic roadmap aims to create between 100,000 and 200,000 new job opportunities. Key features of this plan include the 'Jobs Connect' digital application to match skilled workers with employers, the formalization of domestic work, and expanded participation in commercial farming. Basintale emphasized that while the agency continues to hit its targets, efforts are ongoing to secure sustainable post-engagement job placements and address existing funding caps to ensure long-term program viability.