A workshop on Migration and Youth in Ghana brought together various participants who emphasized the need for tailored policies to address the migration aspirations of young people. These policies, according to attendees, would not only encourage youth to make informed decisions that can improve their economic status, but also benefit the country as a whole.
The project, a collaboration between the Centre for Migration Studies (CMS) at the University of Ghana, Legon, and Maastricht University in the Netherlands, aimed to highlight the findings of studies conducted on youth migration aspirations and how these aspirations impact their lives.
Ms Onallia Esther Osei, a Ph.D. student at Maastricht University, explained that the collaboration focused on examining transnational family lives and how they shape the lives and well-being of migrants and non-migrants alike. The project explored the perspectives of different groups, including children of migrants residing in both destination countries and countries of origin, in order to better understand mobility trajectories and migration aspirations.
Ms. Osei emphasized that gaining insights into the similarities and differences among various groups would aid in comprehending the impact of background characteristics, experiences, and aspirations on migration decisions.
Regarding the workshop’s focus on Ghanaian youths’ migration aspirations, including those of children of migrants living in Ghana, Ms. Osei revealed that the study indicated almost every young person aspires to migrate. However, the timing and means of migration differ among individuals.
She called on stakeholders and caregivers to guide youth in transforming their migration aspirations into assets for the country, while simultaneously improving their own life prospects and well-being. Furthermore, Ms. Osei urged all actors in the migration industry, including scholars, to move beyond pessimistic views of youth migration and instead explore how to harness these aspirations for the benefit of the individuals and the country of origin.
Ms. Osei proposed the implementation of a tailored system to assist Ghanaian youth who choose to remain in the country after completing secondary school. This system would enable them to leverage local tertiary training, gain a comprehensive understanding of education in Ghana, enhance their knowledge of the culture and practices, and explore life opportunities. By providing such chances, the allure of immediate migration upon completing secondary school or a bachelor’s degree could be diminished, addressing challenges such as limited job prospects or difficulties in enjoying family life.
She stressed that overcoming these challenges and ensuring viable opportunities for staying would positively impact current practices, such as the mobility of teachers and nurses across borders, which the Government of Ghana and destination countries are working on or enforcing.
Dr. Balisuma Dito, from Maastricht University, emphasized the importance of considering the long-term aspirations of youth and supporting them in achieving their goals. Recognizing that young people represent the workforce of every country, harnessing their potential is crucial for socio-economic development.
Professor Mary Setrana, the Director of CMS, expressed gratitude for the collaboration and emphasized how the policy dialogue aligns with CMS’s key mandates.
The project also conducted several studies that shed light on the frustrations and mental distress experienced by youth who fail to realize their migration aspirations. Counseling assistance was recommended as a means to address these challenges effectively.
