As of my most recent knowledge update in September 2021, the National Service Scheme NSS in Ghana plays a critical part in the countrys growth by mobilising newly graduated university students to serve in various sectors of the Ghanaian economy for a one-year mandatory service period. Here is an outline of Ghana's National Service Scheme situation. Mandatory Service National service is required of all Ghanaians who have completed their higher education, whether at universities, polytechnics, or institutes of education.
The purpose of this programme is to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical experience. Duration National service individuals are often allocated to various organisations such as government agencies, private companies, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities for one year. Placement The National Service Secretariat NSS is in charge of placing service personnel. When determining placements, they take into account individual preferences, academic backgrounds, and the needs of the service institutions. Responsibilities and Roles Service professionals do a variety of activities, ranging from teaching in schools to working in government offices, hospitals, and other settings, depending on their subject of study and placement.
Specific responsibilities can vary greatly. Stipend Service members are given a monthly stipend to help them get by during their service year. This allowance is not meant to represent an income, but rather to provide financial assistance to pay basic living needs. Challenges Over the years, the National Service Scheme has experienced a number of obstacles, including issues with timely payment of allowances, concerns about the quality of placements, and calls for an increase in the allowance to keep up with the rising cost of living. Impact Young graduates see national service as an opportunity to get practical experience, develop soft skills, and contribute to national development. It can also be used to network and find potential employment prospects.
Please keep in mind that the situation in Ghana surrounding the National Service Scheme may have changed since my last update in September 2021. For the most up-to-date information on the program's status and any recent developments or modifications, it is best to contact official sources or news outlets. Over the years, Ghanaian National Service personnel have expressed a variety of issues and challenges. While individual experiences may differ, some typical cries and concerns made by Ghanaian national service personnel include the following.
1. Payment of Allowance on Time Monthly allowance payout delays have been a regular issue. National service members rely on this allowance to fund their basic living needs, and any delays might create financial hardship.
2. Placement Quality Some service members are dissatisfied with their assignments, noting situations where their talents and qualifications do not match the responsibilities allotted to them. They may believe that their volunteer experience has had little impact on their professional development.
3. insufficient facilities and resources Personnel may have difficulties in certain service assignments, particularly in remote locations, due to a lack of basic facilities and resources. This can have an impact on their living situations as well as their job performance.
4. Commuting and Transportation Accessing their service sites can be difficult due to inadequate transportation infrastructure. Some military workers may be required to travel vast distances, which can be taxing and costly.
5. Professional Advancement Some service members express concern about the absence of obvious career advancement or employment options after finishing their national duty.
In spite of all these, the 2022/2023 has really really suffered in the hands of the government of Ghana. For example,
As at 26th September, 2023.
Arrears owed National Service Personnel
First issue
GHs 939.18 (January to June arrears)
GHs 25 (unlawful deduction from allowance)
GHs 715. 57 (August 2023 allowance)
GHs 715.57 (September 2023 allowance)
Total: GHs 2395.32
Second issue
Some National Service Personnel have never been paid for over three months to over six months.
This has called for a peaceful demonstration with the message;
We SAY NO to any form of part payment.
# Pay all National Service arrears Now !!!
And a declaration of Special 25 hours Prayer and Fasting for all National Service Arrears to be paid ‼️
From 6:00 p.m. today Wednesday 27th September, 2023 to 7p.m. Thursday, 28th September, 2023; as many National Service Personnel that are capable of this 25 hours fast are encouraged to do so.
Prayer Topics:
1. All National Service arrears of not less than GHs 2,300 should be paid now.
2. We SAY NO to any form of part payment.
