The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) of Ghana, under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Malik Basintale, is embarking on a significant overhaul of its sanitation model. This initiative aims to not only improve sanitation conditions across the country but also to provide sustainable and dignified employment opportunities for Ghanaian youth. Presenting the updated model before the Parliamentary Select Committee on Sanitation and Water, Basintale outlined the agency’s commitment to a revitalized approach that prioritizes both impactful community service and fair labor practices. The restructured model seeks to move beyond a temporary fix to sanitation challenges and establish a robust system that benefits both the environment and the economic prospects of young Ghanaians.
Central to the YEA’s revamped strategy is a commitment to ethical employment standards. Basintale unequivocally stated his refusal to collaborate with companies that fail to meet the national minimum wage requirements. This firm stance reflects a dedication to protecting the rights and well-being of the young people employed through the agency’s programs. By ensuring fair compensation, the YEA aims to create truly empowering opportunities that enable young Ghanaians to earn a living wage and contribute meaningfully to their communities. This commitment to fair labor practices is not only morally sound but also strategically important for fostering a motivated and productive workforce.
The agency’s renewed vision extends beyond simply providing jobs. The YEA is focusing on reshaping the very perception and structure of its sanitation programs. Basintale emphasized the importance of rebranding and repositioning the sanitation model to maximize its efficiency and expand its reach across Ghana. This strategic shift signifies a move towards a more professionalized and impactful approach to sanitation services, highlighting the essential role these services play in public health and community development. By rebranding and restructuring the model, the YEA seeks to elevate the status of sanitation work and attract a skilled and dedicated workforce.
Furthermore, the YEA’s commitment to sustainable employment is a cornerstone of the updated model. The agency is moving away from short-term, temporary placements towards creating lasting career pathways within the sanitation sector. This approach aims to equip young people with the skills and experience they need to build long-term careers in this vital field. By investing in training and development, the YEA is not only addressing immediate sanitation needs but also contributing to the long-term economic prosperity of Ghana by cultivating a skilled and specialized workforce.
Accountability and transparency are also key elements of Basintale’s leadership and the agency’s revised approach. He reaffirmed his commitment to adhering strictly to Ghana’s labor laws in all agreements made under the YEA’s purview. This commitment to legal compliance underscores the agency’s dedication to operating with integrity and upholding the highest ethical standards. By prioritizing adherence to labor laws, the YEA aims to build trust and confidence among its employees, partner organizations, and the public, demonstrating its commitment to responsible governance.
The presentation before the Parliamentary Select Committee concluded with a positive reception. Members of the committee expressed their support for the YEA’s renewed focus and Basintale’s commitment to accountability and youth development. This endorsement from the parliamentary oversight body signals a strong vote of confidence in the agency’s direction and its potential to make a significant contribution to both sanitation improvements and youth employment in Ghana. The collaborative spirit between the YEA and the Parliamentary Committee bodes well for the successful implementation of the updated sanitation model and its envisioned positive impact on communities across the country.
