Ghana has officially expressed interest in taking full advantage of the Serbian government’s decision to issue 100,000 work permits to foreign nationals this year. The move is expected to open a new chapter in labour mobility and international cooperation between the two countries.
This was disclosed by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, during a press briefing in Accra on Wednesday.
The announcement followed the signing of a bilateral agreement with his Serbian counterpart, Marko Đurić, aimed at deepening diplomatic and socio-economic ties between Ghana and Serbia.
According to Mr. Ablakwa, the Serbian government is responding to a growing labour shortage caused by its ageing population, and has therefore launched a programme to grant work permits to skilled and semi-skilled foreign workers in a variety of sectors.
“Serbia has an ageing population and will require a labour mobility agreement. Looking at Ghana’s youthful population, with a median age of just 20 years, we see this as a timely and strategic opportunity for our citizens to gain international work experience while contributing to Serbia’s workforce,” Mr. Ablakwa said.
He emphasised that the Ghanaian government is already working closely with relevant institutions to ensure that qualified and interested Ghanaians are given access to the Serbian labour market in an organised, legal, and safe manner. Areas of interest are expected to include healthcare, construction, agriculture, information technology, and manufacturing.
The Foreign Minister also hinted at plans to establish a Labour Migration Support Centre in Accra to prepare prospective applicants with relevant training, legal documentation, and cultural orientation before departure.
“This is not just about sending people abroad to work. It’s about giving our youth access to dignified and well-paying jobs, equipping them with skills and international exposure, and returning home with resources that can support families and communities,” Mr. Ablakwa added.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com
