President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has stated that the National Service Scheme (NSS), through administrative arrangements, has expanded further the scope of its operations, with the view to repositioning itself to respond to the exigencies of the times.
In doing so, he said, the Scheme has created and executed initiatives that have harnessed the potential of the youth for civic duty and national cohesion, and helped create employment for sustainable development.
“Looking forward, the NSS is poised for comprehensive transformation. Recognising the evolving global landscape and the imperative for sustainable development, my administration is committed to elevating the Scheme beyond its current role.
“Through strategic organisational development, the Scheme will transition to a dynamic agent moulding young talents for the workforce,” President Akufo-Addo on Tuesday, 10th October 2023, joined the National Service Scheme (NSS) in commemorating the 50th anniversary of its establishment.
The National Service programme is a compulsory one-year service required of all citizens of Ghana who are 18 years and above, at the time of deployment. The Scheme which started in 1973 now operates under Act 426 (of 1980).
President Akufo-Addo said that Ghana was one of the first countries in Africa to have established programmes and schemes aimed at mobilising her youth, who have attained certain ages or obtained higher educational qualifications, to provide services that are of strategic significance to the State.
Since 2017, he said his government has engaged “young people, including National Service Personnel, in intentional, productive and constructive ways, whilst recognising and enhancing their strengths.”
Specifically, he said, several youth development programmes have been put in place, which not only prioritise young adults’ needs and build the skills needed to become productive and successful members of society, but also strengthen young people’s sense of identity and belief in the future.
“These include the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), the Ghana Enterprises Agency’s (GEA) YouStart Programme, and the Commission for Technical and Vocational Educational and Training (CTVET),” he said.