The government should double national service personnel allowance to ease their frustration - William Boadi

The plight of National Service Personnel in Ghana is growing more critical as these young professionals face financial challenges due to delays and inadequacies in their monthly allowances.

The government’s failure to promptly address these issues is causing frustration among graduates who, while eager to contribute their skills, struggle to meet basic expenses.

National Service, facilitated by the National Service Authority, is designed to give new graduates practical experience and a pathway into the professional world.

However, the current reality for many is far from supportive. Their allowance, set at a modest GHc715, has proven insufficient and is often paid inconsistently, leaving these young professionals scrambling to cover essentials like rent, transportation, and food.

This has led to widespread disillusionment, with many graduates entering the workforce with optimism only to be met with preventable hardships.

To address this, the Educate Africa Institute (EAI) recommends three immediate actions:

1. Ensuring timely payments starting from the first month of service.

2. Increasing the monthly allowance to GHc1,000.

3. Introducing a GHc500 rent allowance. Timely payment is essential to maintain the financial stability of these personnel, many of whom began their service in October 2024 and have yet to receive consistent payments.

An increased allowance would better match the cost of living, allowing National Service Personnel to cover transportation, meals, and other daily expenses.

The additional rent allowance would provide crucial support for those stationed away from home, enabling them to secure safe and suitable housing without undue financial strain.

These adjustments would not only improve the living conditions of these young professionals but would also demonstrate the government’s commitment to supporting its youth.

Ultimately, these recommendations are not just about financial relief; they represent a necessary step toward creating a system that supports young professionals as they transition into the workforce.

National Service Personnel, often experiencing employment for the first time, deserve a supportive environment that allows them to focus on building their skills and contributing positively to society.

Educate Africa Institute calls on the government, led by H.E. President Nana Addo, to enact these changes as a testament to its commitment to Ghana’s youth.

A simple shift in policy timely payment, allowance increase, and rent support would significantly improve the well-being of National Service Personnel, empowering them to perform their duties effectively and fostering a more hopeful outlook for their future and Ghana’s development.