The Director-General of the National Service Authority (NSA), Mr. Osei Assibey Antwi, has praised President Akufo-Addo for his unwavering support and commitment to the authority’s activities and programmes since taking office in 2017.
Mr. Assibey Antwi underscored the President’s hands-on involvement in key projects, notably the acquisition of 20,000-acre farmland in Kumawu.
This initiative will provide National Service personnel with practical agricultural experience and contribute to promoting food security in Ghana.
According to him, this project reflects President Akufo-Addo’s vision of expanding the scope of national service to foster economic growth and promote self-sufficiency.
“You have been a champion of the National Service Scheme, now the National Service Authority. Your steadfast support has transformed the lives of countless young Ghanaians and strengthened the institution we proudly celebrate today,” Mr. Assibey Antwi said.
He added that the President’s dedication to youth welfare is evident in the incremental increase of the National Service allowance, from GH¢350 to GH¢559, and later to GH¢715.
This, he noted, has significantly empowered the youth and ensured they are adequately supported in their service to the country.
Speaking at the formal launch of the National Service Authority, which marks a new era of dedication and innovation, the National Service boss emphasized that the Authority is now operating under an expanded mandate.
This includes mobilizing, deploying, and training service personnel with a focus on employability and professional development.
“The Authority’s enhanced framework not only provides essential manpower to public and private institutions across Ghana but also equips young professionals with practical skills to thrive in a competitive job market,” Mr. Assibey Antwi stated.
He emphasized that the NSA is committed to building a workforce adaptable to both local and global economic demands through targeted training programmes and industry partnerships.
As part of its expanded scope, the NSA seeks further support from President Akufo-Addo to optimize operations and create a meaningful impact.
Mr. Assibey Antwi appealed for government assistance to acquire construction equipment and additional farm machinery.
These tools would expand the Authority’s construction activities, carried out through the National Service Construction Gangs, and support agricultural projects nationwide.
National Service boss disclosed that the Construction Gangs have been formally registered to offer maintenance and construction services.
The NSA also plans to secure farmland in each region to ensure the sustainability of its agricultural initiatives.
This expansion would support the Free Senior High School (fSHS) programme by bolstering food production.
The Director-General called for increased financial support to complete the Authority’s transition.
“These funds will be pivotal in solidifying our foundation and enabling us to explore new avenues for national service, ultimately enhancing our capacity to serve Ghana effectively,” he stated.