NSS is now an Authority; set to Boost Youth Development and National Growth

The National Service Scheme (NSS) has officially transitioned into the National Service Authority (NSA), following the passage of the National Service Authority Act (Act 1119) by Parliament. This significant transformation was marked by a launch event held at the Alisa Hotel in Accra, with President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo presiding over the ceremony.

In his keynote address, President Akufo-Addo commended the NSS for its crucial contributions to Ghana’s development, revealing that the scheme saves the country over 3 billion Cedis annually. He emphasized that the newly established National Service Authority would continue to play a vital role in preparing the youth for nation-building, while also nurturing young talents. The President hinted that the Authority would play an even more prominent role under the next administration, anticipated to be led by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Daniel Macorly, called for national service to be made mandatory for all youth, highlighting its importance in fostering discipline and patriotism. He proposed a partnership between the National Service Authority, his foundation, and his salt industry to support the Authority’s activities, underscoring the need for collaboration to drive its mission forward.

In his welcome address, Osei Assibey Antwi, the first Director-General of the National Service Authority, praised the government’s commitment to youth development. He stated that the transformation of the NSS into an authority demonstrates the government’s dedication to strengthening national institutions. Mr. Assibey Antwi also called for more government support, specifically in acquiring equipment and farmland for agricultural projects aimed at supporting the Free Senior High School (FSHS) program. He appealed to the Finance Minister for financial backing to expand the Authority’s initiatives, including the NSS’s accounting services and potential collaborations with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC).

NSS Board Chairman, Nee Odoi Tetteyfio, highlighted the significance of the transition from a scheme to an authority, explaining that it would enhance the capacity and scope of the institution to operate more efficiently. He also revealed that plans are in place to improve remuneration for NSS staff, which would lead to more opportunities for growth and sustainability under the NSA’s expanded mandate.

The Minister for Education, Hon. Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, also spoke at the event, lauding the NSS’s pivotal role in advancing national development, particularly in the education sector. He attributed part of the sector’s success under President Akufo-Addo’s administration to the crucial contributions of the NSS.

The launch of the National Service Authority marks a new era for the institution, with its restructured status set to provide even greater value to Ghana’s development efforts while empowering the nation’s youth for the future.

Source: ghananewsonline.com.gh