Ghana signs deal with Russia’s Tatarstan for jobs, business, academic research and cultural exchanges

Ghana has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Russia’s Republic of Tatarstan to facilitate employment opportunities for Ghanaian citizens under the Alabuga Start programme.

The agreement was signed between the Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment and the Alabuga Special Economic Zone, with the aim of strengthening cooperation in the employment of Ghanaian citizens.

Among the officials present at the signing were E.R. Safiullin, Acting Director of Alabuga; Senator Muhametshin; Gatin, an adviser to the Rais of Tatarstan; and Ahmetshin, Permanent Representative of Tatarstan to Moscow.

Speaking after the signing in Russia, Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Emmanuel Kwadwo Agyekum, said the agreement would open up opportunities for Ghana’s youthful population to access jobs with competitive salaries, accommodation and residence permits.

He said the government was committed to ensuring that Ghanaians recruited under the arrangement received appropriate employment opportunities and adequate protection.

“We’re going to make sure that they get the right jobs to do, they are protected, they are being given the right conditions of service,” he said.

Kwadwo Agyekum explained that the agreement extends beyond labour migration, with both parties exploring opportunities for business collaboration, academic research, and cultural and religious exchanges.

He said Ghanaian businesses were expected to participate in upcoming business forums, while universities and academic institutions would be encouraged to collaborate on research initiatives.

The Minister added that the government would continue pursuing international partnerships aimed at expanding employment opportunities for young people.