NSS Global Deployment Policy Faces Strong Backlash Over Misaligned Priorities
The National Service Scheme (NSS) has unveiled an ambitious 10-year policy aimed at deploying personnel to the USA, UK, and Nigeria under a collaborative agreement, sparking significant controversy and opposition from prospective participants and university students.
The announcement, made by the Director of Corporate Affairs for the NSS, has faced strong backlash from stakeholders who argue that the policy is a stark misalignment of priorities.
Critics contend that the initiative could be vulnerable to political exploitation, with many expressing concerns that the policy is more about rewarding political loyalists than addressing pressing domestic issues.
University of Ghana students have voiced their disapproval, emphasizing that the scheme diverts attention from the immediate needs of thousands of unpaid personnel currently serving in Ghana.
One student highlighted the issue succinctly, stating, “We have thousands of personnel working tirelessly for Mother Ghana without being paid for months. Yet, we dare to set up another initiative to send personnel out of the country. Why don’t we focus on making sure the personnel here are paid regularly, rather than catering to politicians’ preferences?”
Another student acknowledged the potential long-term benefits of such an international deployment but stressed the timing is inappropriate due to the prevailing economic conditions and the risk of brain drain.
“It is a step in the right direction, but at this moment, it is not really needed. We have constantly been talking about brain drain. My concern is that if we implement this policy, will the personnel return to the country after their service abroad?”
Many students have voiced a reluctance to return to Ghana upon completing their service year abroad, citing the lack of job opportunities and better economic prospects elsewhere.
One student remarked, “I am not coming back if selected because relying on a government salary will not help. There are no jobs in Ghana currently, but in those countries, there are enough opportunities.”
Dr. Jerry-Joe Harrison, Secretary of the University of Ghana branch of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG-UG), echoed these concerns, describing the global deployment plan as an avenue for political exploitation.
“It is going to be another scheme to use this structure as a way of rewarding party loyalists. Given the current circumstances, even the NSS we have here is susceptible to political influence, with connected individuals getting preferred postings. This new policy could further entrench such practices,” he explained.
