Ghana is in advanced talks with the Republic of Serbia to secure a share of the 100,000 work permits Serbia plans to issue this year. A move that could open doors for thousands of young Ghanaians to work abroad.

This initiative is part of a proposed Labour Mobility Agreement designed to create meaningful job opportunities for Ghana’s youth while strengthening ties between the two nations.

The announcement came during a joint press briefing in Accra, where Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, welcomed Serbia’s Foreign Minister, Marko Đurić, who is on a three-day official visit to Ghana.

His itinerary includes high-level meetings with key government officials, marking a significant step forward in Ghana-Serbia relations.

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The agreement aligns with Ghana’s broader strategy to tackle youth unemployment and expand international job prospects for its growing pool of educated young people. At the same time, it supports Serbia’s efforts to fill critical labour gaps caused by a declining birth rate and ageing population.

Ablakwa highlighted the timeliness of the discussions, noting that Serbia’s need for skilled and semi-skilled workers presents a strategic opportunity for Ghana.

“Serbia has an ageing population and will require a labour-mobility agreement, taking full advantage of Ghana’s very young population, with a median age of 20,” he said.

He added that, “Serbia plans to issue 100,000 work permits this year, and Ghana is keen to tap into that opportunity so our young people can find dignified work abroad.”

Ghana is aiming to become the second African country after Egypt to formalise such an agreement with Serbia.

The Labour Mobility Agreement is expected to span sectors like construction, healthcare, ICT, agriculture, and services, all of which are in high demand across Serbia and its neighbouring regions.

“This is how we deepen people-to-people engagements and create economic opportunities for all our people at all levels,” Ablakwa added.

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Beyond employment, the two countries are also exploring educational partnerships. Serbia is offering scholarships to Ghanaian students through its “World in Serbia” initiative, further deepening cultural and academic exchange.

Minister Đurić affirmed Serbia’s commitment to the labour mobility plan, citing the country’s demographic challenges.

“With an ageing population, we need to build bridges between our people. This is about creating real connections and practical partnerships,” he said.

Both ministers expressed optimism that the Ghana-Serbia relationship is evolving from diplomatic dialogue into a dynamic and mutually beneficial alliance one that brings real opportunities to people.

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