Unemployed environmental health graduates in Tamale recently took to the streets to voice their frustration over being jobless for two to three years after completing their studies.
The group, which consists of over 1,000 members from the 2021, 2022, and 2023 batches of the three schools of hygiene in the country, expressed their discontentment with the lack of employment opportunities.
According to the Acting President of the Association, Elvis Ayrakwa, the graduates have been unsuccessful in their efforts to secure financial clearance from the Ministry of Finance for their employment. They feel burdened by their inability to find jobs and shared their disappointment in investing time and money in their education only to remain unemployed.
During their time in school, the graduates were promised job placements upon completion of their studies. However, despite graduating in the past few years, they have not received any information about their postings. Mr. Ayrakwa highlighted the financial sacrifices made by students and their families, including working during vacations and receiving financial support for fees, hostels, and travel expenses.
The graduates are demanding employment from the Ministry of Local Government and the Ministry of Sanitation. They are calling on their employers to advocate on their behalf to secure job placements. The group emphasized that this is all they want – an opportunity to work after years of studying and waiting.
It is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by young graduates in Ghana who struggle to find employment despite their qualifications. The protest by the environmental health graduates highlights the need for more support and opportunities for young professionals in the country.
