National Service Will be Optional for Graduates Under My Presidency – Bawumia

In a bold move aimed at bolstering job prospects for Ghanaian youth, Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flag bearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has unveiled plans to overhaul Ghana’s national service scheme, making it optional for graduates.

Speaking at the UPSA auditorium in Accra, Dr. Bawumia outlined his vision to prioritize job creation by reevaluating the mandatory nature of national service, which he believes could be a barrier to employment opportunities.

Under his proposed policy, graduates who secure employment upon completing their education would be exempt from national service, enabling them to immediately integrate into the workforce. Additionally, all graduates would have the freedom to choose whether to participate in national service, potentially opening up more immediate career pathways.

Dr. Bawumia emphasized that this shift would not only empower students with the choice to engage in national service but also encourage companies to actively recruit on university campuses, tapping into a pool of talent readily available for employment.

He articulated his stance, stating: “To aid our youth in securing jobs, it is imperative to reassess our current national service scheme. My administration will advocate for the exemption of graduates who secure employment post-education from national service. Moreover, national service will transition from a mandatory requirement to an optional endeavor for students. This strategic shift will also incentivize companies to engage in campus recruitment drives annually.”