Leaders of unemployed graduates with disabilities urged Ghana’s government to tighten enforcement of a public-sector hiring quota, warning that thousands of qualified persons remain locked out of formal work despite years of policy commitments.
The group, led by Gilbert Agyare, met the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, to press for dedicated recruitment clearances and full implementation of the 5% employment quota for persons with disabilities across state institutions.
Agyare described the unemployment situation among graduates with disabilities as a long-standing national concern, arguing that open competition without tailored support continues to disadvantage persons with disabilities. He called for structured pathways that ensure fair opportunities, including targeted recruitment mechanisms within the public sector.
Lartey said the engagement was part of ongoing consultations and noted the delegation was the third disability association she has met as the ministry works to address unemployment challenges facing persons with disabilities.
She assured the group that government remains committed to inclusive employment policies, adding that the ministry will work closely with the National Council on Persons with Disabilities and other institutions to strengthen data systems and develop a comprehensive database to support job placement efforts.
“ I want to assure you that you will not be left behind. Government is committed to ensuring that persons with disabilities, including unemployed graduates are meaningfully included in employment opportunities and national development efforts.” She said.
The minister also said her office will monitor the use of the District Assemblies Common Fund allocation for persons with disabilities, particularly in skills development, capacity building and enterprise support. She stressed the need for coordinated engagement among disability groups to avoid fragmentation and ensure interventions are measurable and evidence-based.
Officials present included Edwin Kweku Andoh, executive secretary of the National Council on Persons with Disabilities, and Florence Ayisi Quartey, director of the ministry’s Policy, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Directorate.
