Accra, October 18, 2024 — The National Service Scheme (NSS) has officially transitioned into the National Service Authority following the passage of the National Service Authority Act (Act 1119) by Parliament.
The launch of the newly established National Service Authority was held at the Alisa Hotel in Accra, with President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo presiding over the event.
Delivering the keynote address, President Akufo-Addo praised the immense contribution of the NSS to national development, revealing that the scheme saves the country over 3 billion Cedis annually.
He reiterated that the National Service Authority will continue to be a key institution in preparing the youth for nation-building. He added that it would play an even more vital role in nurturing young talents under the next administration, expected to be led by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Mr. Daniel Macholy, Chairman of the occasion, called for national service to be made mandatory, emphasizing the critical role it plays in instilling discipline and patriotism in the youth. He further encouraged a partnership between the National Service Authority, his foundation, and his salt industry to support the authority’s activities.
In his welcome address, Osei Assibey Antwi, the first Director-General of the National Service Authority, applauded the President’s commitment to youth development. He noted that the transformation of the NSS into an authority is a testament to the government’s dedication to strengthening institutions.
Mr. Assibey Antwi urged for further government support, particularly in the procurement of equipment and securing farmland for agricultural initiatives under the authority’s name to support the Free Senior High School (FSHS) program. He also appealed to the Finance Minister to consider financial backing for these initiatives, as well as the expansion of the NSS’s accounting aid and collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC).
NSS Board Chairman, Nee Odoi Tetteyfio, highlighted the significance of the institution’s transition, stating that it would enhance the capacity and jurisdiction of the service to function more effectively. He also disclosed that plans are underway to improve the remuneration of NSS staff in line with the authority’s new status, which he said will create further opportunities for growth and sustainability.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister for Education, Hon. Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, recounted the tremendous strides made in the education sector under President Akufo-Addo’s tenure, attributing part of this success to the critical role played by the NSS in national development.
The launch of the National Service Authority marks a new chapter in the institution’s history, as it continues to provide valuable service to the country’s development while supporting the growth of the nation’s youth.
Source: Clement Akoloh/parliamentnews360.com
