Ghana’s National Service Authority has initiated formal discussions with the Ghana Armed Forces to launch a mandatory military training program for all national service personnel, marking a significant shift in the country’s youth development strategy.
The National Service Emergency Response Readiness Programme, first proposed by President John Mahama in February 2025, aims to enhance discipline, patriotism, and physical preparedness among young graduates entering national service.
During a pivotal meeting on April 23, NSA Director-General Felix Gyamfi emphasized the program’s role in national renewal, stating, “This training represents a crucial step toward resetting our nation’s trajectory, particularly for our youth.” The initiative will require participants to complete up to two months of basic military drills and orientation exercises, with the inaugural cohort scheduled to begin training on August 3, 2025.
Brigadier General Amoah-Boakye, representing the Military High Command, affirmed full logistical and instructional support for the program, underscoring the armed forces’ commitment to “this national call.” The collaboration aligns with broader efforts to strengthen civic responsibility and emergency preparedness, as Ghana faces increasing climate-related challenges and regional security concerns.
While the policy has drawn comparisons to compulsory military service models in nations like South Korea and Israel, officials stress its tailored focus on cultivating transferable skills rather than combat readiness. The program’s rollout will test institutional coordination between civilian and military structures, with observers noting its potential to shape workforce discipline and national cohesion. As details emerge, stakeholders await further specifics on curriculum design and resource allocation to ensure the initiative meets its dual objectives of youth empowerment and national resilience.
