Ghana’s Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has delivered a compelling message at the 50th Anniversary of the National Service Scheme (NSS) in Accra. Bagbin called on public and private sector leaders to rethink their approach to the one-year mandatory national service, emphasizing the need for skill development over errands.
In his speech, Speaker Bagbin stressed the importance of making the most of the national service year. Instead of treating National Service Personnel (NSP) as errand boys and girls, he urged organizations to create environments conducive to skill enhancement.
“Please don’t be sending them to buy you Kofi brokeman,” Bagbin implored, underlining the critical nature of this year for the development of NSPs. He pointed out that many NSPs often find themselves without proper seating arrangements and face contemptuous treatment.
The global village we live in today is highly competitive, Bagbin noted. As such, he encouraged organizations to recognize the potential contributions of NSPs to the workforce. He called on them to provide opportunities for skill development and growth during the national service year.
Speaker Bagbin’s call to action is straightforward: maximize the potential of Ghana’s youth during their national service year. This means refraining from treating NSPs as messengers and instead recognizing them as valuable assets to be nurtured and prepared for the demands of the contemporary global job market.
