Youth migration can be reversed – Yamso

MANAGING Partner at Ishmael Yamson and Associates, Michael Harry Yamson, has laid out an extensive plan aimed at addressing the increasing trend of youth migration in Ghana.

As more young, skilled professionals leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad, the experienced brand and business development expert, in a paper titled ‘Youth Migration: The Impact and Strategic Solutions for Businesses in Ghana,’ suggests strategic solutions to reverse this trend and bolster national economic growth.

According to Yamson, the outflow of young talent poses a serious threat to Ghana’s future by shrinking the skilled labour pool, stifling innovation, and weakening economic development. He underscores the importance of creating a conducive job market that keeps Ghana’s youth at home.

Citing examples from Germany and Israel, which have successfully nurtured startup ecosystems through favorable regulations, tax incentives, and access to capital, Yamson believes Ghana can replicate similar initiatives to support entrepreneurship and create job opportunities for young professionals.

Economic Incentives and Infrastructure Development

To stimulate economic growth, Yamson proposes targeted incentives and development programs. Drawing inspiration from South Korea’s economic rise, he suggests tax incentives and subsidies for startups and small businesses to drive entrepreneurship and job creation.

Additionally, the development of economic zones focusing on technology, manufacturing, and tourism, combined with infrastructure improvements in roads, ports, and energy, will help attract and retain talent within the country.

Educational and Skill Development Initiatives

Education, Yamson notes, is critical to reducing youth migration. He advocates for aligning Ghana’s education system with market demands by investing in STEM education and vocational training, inspired by Finland’s innovative education system and Germany’s dual learning approach.

By reforming curricula to emphasize practical skills and fostering partnerships with foreign universities and companies, Ghana can equip its youth with the tools they need to thrive while ensuring they return home to contribute to local development.

Improving Living Conditions and Political Stability

Yamson highlights that improving living conditions and ensuring political stability are essential for retaining the country’s youth. He points to Sweden and New Zealand as models for Ghana, with their comprehensive social systems and strong governance.

By investing in healthcare, providing affordable housing, and ensuring transparent and effective governance, Ghana can create a youth-friendly environment where young professionals feel valued and engaged.

Leveraging Technology

Yamson also emphasizes the importance of embracing technology to create local opportunities while connecting globally. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that remote work is viable and offers new employment avenues.

Estonia’s e-Residency program, which has turned the country into a global tech hub, demonstrates what is possible. By investing in digital infrastructure and encouraging tech innovation, Ghana can position itself at the forefront of the digital economy, offering opportunities for its youth to work for global companies without leaving home.

Engaging the Diaspora

Recognizing the immense potential of Ghana’s diaspora, Yamson advocates for developing programs that encourage return migration and leverage the skills and experience of Ghanaians abroad.

Citing India’s success with its global tech diaspora and the Philippines’ Overseas Filipino Workers Programme, he believes that remittances, knowledge transfer, and diaspora engagement can significantly boost the economy.

By establishing networks that facilitate investment and professional collaboration, Ghana can tap into the diaspora’s resources to fuel national development. Mr Harry Yamson’s comprehensive strategies offer a clear path for Ghana to tackle youth migration by focusing on job creation, education, political reform, and diaspora engagement. If implemented, these measures will help Ghana retain its young talent and ensure a prosperous future for the nation.