Barely two weeks after its launch, the Nation Builders Corps (NaBCO) programme has been hit with some setbacks.

The programme, which aims at reducing graduate unemployment in the country, allows applicants to submit their applications online.

However, applicants have been frustrated by their inability to complete the registration online due to constant system failure.

Some applicants, who narrated their ordeals to the DAILY HERITAGE, expressed dissatisfaction about the registration processes and called for immediate intervention from authorities to ensure the programme is successful.

An applicant, who spoke to the paper on condition of anonymity, said though he began the process on Thursday, May 3, he was yet to complete it due to the system breakdown.

“Initially I thought it was the internet service here so I delayed the process to do it the following day. I tried the next day but experienced the same problem so I’ve just given up. I have completed some of the processes though, but I have not submitted it because the system doesn’t allow me to do that,” the source told us.

The source added that, “Since Thursday, all what I see when I try to complete the process is ‘502 Bad Gateway’, which I don’t understand.”



Hackers

The paper further understands that the programme has been hit by the activities of internet hackers, who have inflated the figures of the registered applicants.

It was reported that about 40,000 applicants have registered for the programmes, but information reaching the DAILY HERITAGE suggests that the number might include those who have registered by internet hackers.

Dr Ibrahim Anyars, Coordinator, NaBCO, who promised to speak to the DAILY HERITAGE on the issues, was unable to do so as at the time of going to press yesterday.



Background

The NABCO programme aims at addressing livelihood empowerment and graduate unemployment and is expected to hire about 100,000 graduates.

The focus of the initiative will be public service delivery in health, education, agriculture, technology, governance and drive revenue mobilisation and collection.

Launching the NaBCO in Kumasi as part of the May Day celebration, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo noted that central to the objective of the programme is the utilisation of the talents of unemployed graduates who have completed their national service but have not landed permanent jobs.

NaBCO’s central focus, the President said, would be to create employment avenues and opportunities for young people who hold diplomas or degrees from accredited tertiary institutions.

“NABCO will enhance the dignity and self-esteem of our graduates, and will also present them with the added benefit of efficiency and effectiveness in the delivery of essential public,” he added.