Mixed Reactions as Ghana Plans Military Training for National Service Personnel
Final-year tertiary students and potential National Service Scheme (NSS) personnel have expressed mixed reactions to the government’s plan to introduce a short military training programme as part of their national service.
The proposal, announced by President John Dramani Mahama in his first State of the Nation Address (SONA), aims to instill discipline, fitness, and resilience among Ghana’s youth.
Support for the Initiative
Some students believe the training will positively impact young graduates.
Mavis Anokye Mensah, a final-year student at UNIMAC-IJ (University of Media, Arts, and Communications – Institute of Journalism), supports the initiative, saying it will build discipline, resilience, and teamwork.
“For me, I think what the government is bringing on board is good because the training will help us learn basic survival skills and prepare us to face difficulties head-on,” she said.
Similarly, Ransford Dorgbor, another final-year student at UNIMAC-IJ, believes discipline among the youth could enhance productivity and contribute to national development.
“I think this policy used to exist in our national service laws, so I do not have any issue with it being reintroduced,” he noted.
However, he cautioned that the training should not be mandatory, as some individuals may have health issues or personal limitations.
Opposition to the Plan
Others, however, see no value in the military training aspect of national service.
Gideon Owusu, also from UNIMAC-IJ, dismissed the initiative, stating:
“In my opinion, I do not see any value this training will add to my life, so the government should not bring this as part of the NSS.”
The debate highlights diverging views on whether the government’s proposed military training will serve as a nation-building tool or an unnecessary burden for graduates.
With implementation plans yet to be detailed, many are waiting to see whether participation will be compulsory or optional for national service personnel.
Source: GhanaWeb