The National Service Scheme (NSS) has moved to clear up widespread misunderstandings regarding its new military-related programme for service personnel. Fuseini Donkor, Deputy Director of NSS, explained that the initiative is a military orientation — not full military training — designed to instil discipline and essential life skills among Ghanaian youth.
Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show, Mr. Donkor stressed the importance of differentiating between the two terms, pointing out that many people still picture military training as harsh jungle survival exercises and weapons handling, which is far from the truth of the current orientation.
“The public perception is often stuck in outdated images of tough drills and harsh conditions. But today, the military’s training modules include practical skills like report writing, communication, emergency care, and leadership—skills that complement what students learn at university,” he said.
Mr. Donkor also revealed that NSS officials themselves initially misunderstood the scope of the programme until they engaged with the Ghana Armed Forces directly. “It’s not just about marching or saluting. It’s about developing discipline, structure, and the ability to perform under pressure,” he added.
The orientation is voluntary for now, with plans to make it a compulsory part of the NSS experience after the pilot phase. This first phase will begin in August, involving 10,000 personnel across military training centres and partnered university facilities capable of hosting the trainees.
The programme aims to prepare youth not just for their national service year but also for future careers and life challenges by fostering time management, civic responsibility, and emergency preparedness.
“Our goal is to raise a generation that is disciplined, patriotic, and productive, equipped with skills beyond academic knowledge. We want every graduate to have an edge when entering the workforce,” Mr. Donkor stated.
The initiative follows President John Dramani Mahama’s announcement during his State of the Nation Address in February, where he highlighted the introduction of a short military training component under the NSS to cultivate stronger character and national commitment among young Ghanaians.
As the pilot phase approaches, NSS and the military plan to carefully evaluate its impact on participants before expanding it nationwide, with the hope that it will contribute meaningfully to nation-building and youth development.
