National Service Scheme (NSS) personnel have declared a nationwide strike in response to the government’s failure to pay their allowances for the past five months. The announcement was made on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, by the Concerned National Service Scheme (NSS) Personnel Association of Ghana (CONSPAG).
In a strongly worded statement, the frustrated personnel revealed they are owed five months of allowances, with university graduates also facing delays of three months. They emphasized that, according to NSS regulations, personnel who do not report to their posts for three consecutive months face sanctions. Despite these stringent conditions, the personnel have continued to work without pay for an extended period.
CONSPAG is calling on public and private stakeholders, including media outlets, to support their cause and advocate for the prompt payment of their allowances. The association’s statement underscored the urgency of the situation and the financial hardships faced by the personnel due to the unpaid allowances.
Earlier, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia announced a significant policy shift, stating that national service will no longer be mandatory during his tenure. This decision marks a departure from the longstanding practice in Ghana, where graduates are required to undertake a year of national service after completing their tertiary education. Dr. Bawumia’s move aims to provide graduates with greater flexibility and freedom of choice in determining their post-education paths.
However, this proposal has faced criticism. Vincent Kuagbenu, a former Director of the NSS, raised concerns about the potential impact of making the service voluntary. According to Kuagbenu, Dr. Bawumia’s proposal reflects a lack of understanding of the significance of national service for both individuals and the country. He emphasized that National Service personnel are not paid by the state but rather receive stipends, representing significant savings for the country.
The ongoing strike by the NSS personnel highlights the critical need for the government to address their grievances and ensure timely payment of allowances. As the situation unfolds, the support from various stakeholders will be crucial in resolving the impasse and ensuring that the personnel receive the compensation they are entitled to.
