On December 11, 2023, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia launched the Business and Employment Assistant Program (BEAP) in Sunyani. He urged the management of the Youth Employment Agency (Y.E.A), led by Mr. Kofi Baah Agyepong, to quickly implement the program. In response, the Y.E.A management has decided to conduct a nationwide sensitization campaign on the program. Due to the economic recovery challenges faced by Ghana and many other countries following the COVID-19 pandemic, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have been severely affected. This has hindered their ability to expand their businesses and provide employment opportunities for young Ghanaians. The post-COVID-19 recovery period has resulted in a surge in youth unemployment, causing discontent among governments worldwide. Addressing the issue on behalf of YEA CEO, Alhaji Ibrahim Bashiru told journalists in Bolgatanga that the Youth Employment Agency has developed a Business and Employment Support Program. “This program aims to help SMEs grow by providing skilled workers, hiring more youth, and supporting business sustainability during these challenging times”. He said According to the Deputy CEO, the Business and Employment Assistance Program (BEAP) offers employers (MSMEs) the opportunity to re-hire laid-off employees, hire new employees, and connect with job applicants through the Y.E.A Job Centre. The program provides monthly support of up to GHS 500 per employee to businesses, offers pre-employment and work readiness training to beneficiaries, and assists with recruitment and selection of youth. “The target population for the program includes youth aged 16-35, with priority given to Persons with Disabilities (PWD) and women-led businesses. To access the program, employers and job seekers can contact their nearest Y.E.A Job Centre or visit the website www.yeajobcentre.com for more information”. “Eligible job seekers must be unemployed and identified through the Y.E.A Job Centre or an eligible employer. Employers must be registered businesses in Ghana, comply with all relevant legislation including tax and SSNIT, be able to recall laid-off employees, and demonstrate their ability to co-pay beneficiary compensation”. Sharing some of their past year achievement, he said the Y.E.A has achieved various milestones in the past year, including the Community Protection Assistants (C.P.A) program, Community Health Workers (CHeW), Entrepreneurship Training (NEIP), and partnerships with organizations such as the Ghana Library Authority and National Labour Commission. They are also planning to conduct training programs for artisans, promote youth engagement in agriculture and ICT, and implement the BEAP. The BEAP is a timely initiative aimed at addressing Ghana’s economic challenges and the global projections of slow growth. The government has allocated GH₵ 120 million for the program, with the goal of supporting 10,000 SMEs and providing job opportunities for 20,000 young people. The program’s objectives are job retention, youth employment, SME sustainability, and economic resilience. It aims to safeguard jobs, enhance employment, and promote business stability, ultimately strengthening Ghana’s economic resilience. Meanwhile, Alhaji Bashiru added, that the success of the BEAP relies on the collective efforts of stakeholders, including participating MSMEs, government agencies, financial institutions, and civil society organizations. Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062