‘Make National Service Scheme relevant to country’s development’

An eight-member Governing Board of the National Service Scheme (NSS) has been inaugurated with a charge to adopt innovative strategies to make the scheme relevant to the current development challenges.

The Minister of Education, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, who inaugurated the board, described the NSS as a viable tool for whipping up patriotism and volunteerism among the youth, adding that it symbolised national cohesion and unity.

“It is unacceptable for national service personnel to refuse to accept postings to rural areas where their services are most needed because the essence of the scheme is also to build bridges between the urban and rural areas in terms of access to human resources,” he said.

Under the chairmanship of Professor Kofi Osei Akuoko, the members of the board are Mr Ussif Mustapha, the Executive Director of the scheme, Dr Jemima Nunoo, Mr Godfred Kwame Fosu Agyen and Dr Kingsley Nyarko.

The rest are Mr Dominic Kwesi Eduah, Dr Alhassan Sulemana Anamzoya and Nana Bediako Kyeremeh.

Restructure

Dr Opoku-Prempeh also charged the board to restructure its operations to make the scheme a resource and learning centre for further youth development.

He also called for periodic review of the governing legislation (Act 426 of 1980) to enrich the functions of the scheme and make it relevant.

He lauded the management of the NSS for its agriculture module and other projects that had made the scheme an enviable one in the sub-region.

The minister urged the members of the board to consider their appointment as a national call which demanded commitment, dedication and exemplary leadership.