In a move to tackle corruption and address unemployment, President John Mahama has announced reforms to revitalize Ghana’s National Service Scheme (NSS). The reforms come in response to the ghost names scandal, which rocked the NSS with over 80,000 fictitious names added to the payroll, potentially siphoning public funds.
President Mahama vowed to bring the culprits to justice. “Theft of public funds must not go unpunished,” he declared. Arrests will be made, and assets will be frozen as investigations continue. Those who have fled the country will be declared wanted, and their assets will be traced and frozen until investigations are concluded.
In addition to the crackdown on corruption, President Mahama outlined reforms aimed at revitalizing the NSS. A military training program will be introduced for all national service personnel to instill discipline into Ghana’s youth. This initiative is expected to provide young Ghanaians with skills and enhance their readiness for the workforce.
The reforms follow the passage of the National Service Authorities Act, 2024 (Act 1119), which aims to streamline operations and improve the NSS. President Mahama has tasked the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment with drafting a legislative instrument to support the implementation of the Act.
With these measures, President Mahama hopes to restore trust in the National Service Scheme and use the NSS as a platform for national service personnel to gain skills and contribute to Ghana’s development.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
