The National Service Authority (NSA), in collaboration with the Military High Command, has taken significant steps toward implementing the National Service Emergency Response Readiness Programme (NSERRP).
This initiative, which aims to introduce a short military training course for National Service Personnel (NSPs), is in line with the government’s commitment to instilling discipline, nationalism, and physical fitness among Ghanaian graduates.
The decision was first announced by His Excellency the President during his maiden State of the Nation Address in Parliament on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
During his speech, President John Dramani Mahama emphasised the importance of equipping young people with essential skills that promote national development, resilience, and civic responsibility.
Discussions
On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, the Director-General of the National Service Authority, Mr. Felix Gyamfi, led a meeting with the Military High Command to discuss the logistics and implementation of the NSERRP.
During the discussions, Mr. Gyamfi emphasized the need for basic military drills and physical orientation, which would contribute to enhancing discipline among National Service Personnel (NSPs).
“The introduction of this military training is a step in the right direction and must be embraced by all and sundry as a key initiative for resetting the country, particularly the youth,”Mr. Gyamfi stated.
He further noted that the program would help service personnel develop resilience, teamwork, and patriotism, which are essential for the country’s progress.
In response, Brigadier General Amoah-Boakye, representing the Military High Command, assured the NSA of the military’s readiness to provide the necessary training and resources to implement the initiative effectively.
He stressed that the training would focus on basic drills, physical fitness, teamwork-building, and emergency response preparedness, ensuring that personnel receive comprehensive instruction in various fields of military training.
Structure and Duration of the Training
The NSERRP program will commence on August 3, 2025, providing two months of training for all National Service Personnel. The training will incorporate basic military drills, strategic defense orientation, survival tactics, and emergency response techniques.
It has been indicated that personnel will undergo military-style fitness routines, designed to improve endurance, agility, and preparedness for national service duties.
Additionally, trainees will be equipped with leadership and teamwork skills, ensuring that they are mentally and physically prepared to contribute meaningfully to the nation.
Expected Impact
The announcement of the military training initiative has received mixed reactions from various stakeholders, with education experts, security analysts, and political commentators weighing in on its potential impact.
Supporters argue that the initiative will promotes discipline and patriotism, preparing young people to handle crisis situations and serve the country efficiently.
They also believe that this move will create a culture of responsibility among graduates, instilling in them valuable life skills that go beyond their service period.
Others have raised concerns over the physical and logistical challenges of implementing the program on a large scale, questioning whether facilities and resources will be adequately provided for all NSPs across the country.
Additionally, there are discussions about how this military-oriented approach might impact the traditional structure of the national service.
Despite these varied opinions, the government maintains that the NSERRP is designed to build a stronger generation of Ghanaian youth, equipping them to play vital roles in national security, emergency response, and community development.
Mr. Felix Gyamfi has assured the public that final logistics and implementation details will be released before the rollout of the program, with updates on training locations, procedures, and participation requirements.
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