Youth Underemployment Providing Temporary Relief for Ghana’s Economy – Labour Expert
By: Solomon Nartey Tetteh
Senior Labour Lecturer at the Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Dr. Aaron Kumah, has stated that although underemployment is not ideal, it is playing a crucial role in sustaining the country’s stability amid rising youth unemployment.
Speaking on Business Breakfast on Zed 101.9FM, Dr. Kumah explained that even when individuals are underemployed or dissatisfied with their jobs, having some form of work keeps them mentally and physically engaged.
“When a person is underemployed and not fully satisfied with the job, that person will still go to work. That person will have something to do and will always be busy with an activity,” he said.
According to him, staying engaged in productive activity reduces the likelihood of social vices, as individuals are less likely to remain idle or entertain negative influences. He contrasted this with the situation of a completely unemployed person who wakes up with no job, no income, and sometimes no food.
Dr. Kumah warned that prolonged idleness among the youth could create fertile grounds for crime and social instability.
“Imagine somebody gets up in the morning with nothing to do, and someone passes by with money. What do you think will happen?” he said.
While admitting that underemployment is not the best solution to Ghana’s labour challenges, he noted that it is currently helping to keep the economy functioning. He noted that many young people who have completed their education remain at home assisting parents, supporting family businesses, or engaging in menial jobs.
“These small efforts may not reflect their qualifications, but they are contributing in their own way,” he added.
Dr. Kumah called for stronger policy interventions to create meaningful employment opportunities for the youth, stressing that sustainable economic growth depends on fully harnessing the country’s human capital.
