The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Deputy Communications Officer of Jomoro Constituency in the Western Region, Joel Samuel Ndede alias Hon Arise has called on the government to increase the National Service Scheme allowance to GHC2,200.

Currently, the NSS personnel take GHC715 as their monthly stipend

In a press statement, the Jomoro NDC Deputy Communications Officer who is also a youth activist stated that; "In light of the current economic conditions affecting the people of Ghana, we call upon the National Patriotic Party (NPP) government and the National Service Scheme (NSS) to urgently address the plight of National Service Personnel by increasing their monthly allowances. The current allowance of GHS 715, which is less than $50, is woefully inadequate in the face of the sharp rise in the cost of living, depreciating cedi, and the broader economic challenges facing the country".

"I, therefore, appeal to the NPP government and the National Service Scheme to act urgently by increasing the monthly allowances of National Service personnel to GHS 2,200. This increase will not only alleviate the financial burden on service personnel but also empower them to contribute meaningfully to national development during and after their service", he urged.

Read the full statement below;

INCREASE NATIONAL SERVICE ALLOWANCES IN RESPONSE TO GHANA'S ECONOMIC HARDSHIP

In light of the current economic conditions affecting the people of Ghana, we call upon the National Patriotic Party (NPP) government and the National Service Scheme (NSS) to urgently address the plight of National Service Personnel by increasing their monthly allowances. The current allowance of GHS 715, which is less than $50, is woefully inadequate in the face of the sharp rise in the cost of living, depreciating cedi, and the broader economic challenges facing the country.

Economic Realities & Inadequate Allowances

Today, National Service personnel are grappling with record inflation, rising food prices, and surging utility and transportation costs. A monthly allowance of GHS 715 is simply not enough to cover their basic needs. This amount barely covers transportation costs, let alone rent, utility bills, food, and other living expenses. With the increasing cost of basic goods and services, these young graduates find themselves unable to meet their day-to-day needs, pushing them into financial strain and making them vulnerable to debt.

We therefore urge the government to increase the NSS allowance to at least GHS 2,200.00 to ensure it is more reflective of the harsh economic realities these graduates face. The proposed increment is not just a demand for fair treatment but a necessary adjustment to allow National Service personnel to focus on their work without being overburdened by financial pressures.

The Impact of Low Allowances on Graduates

National Service is a crucial stage in the transition from academic life to the world of work, providing hands-on experience and a chance to contribute to national development. However, for most service personnel, the paltry allowance limits their ability to save or invest in future opportunities, leaving them financially incapacitated at the end of their service year.

With job security being a significant concern after National Service, many graduates are left in limbo, unable to pursue their dreams or start small businesses due to a lack of capital. The low allowance prevents them from saving even modest amounts, which could serve as startup capital for entrepreneurial ventures. This, in turn, contributes to Ghana’s growing unemployment rate, as many skilled graduates are unable to move forward with their career plans due to financial constraints.

The Case for Urgent Action

Increasing the allowances for National Service personnel is not just an act of goodwill but a practical necessity in the current economic climate. It will allow service personnel to:

1. Cover Basic Living Expenses: The cost of rent, utilities, food, and transportation is far beyond the reach of GHS 715. An increment to GHS 2,200 would provide a more realistic buffer against these costs, allowing personnel to live with dignity.

2. Save for the Future: A reasonable allowance would enable service personnel to save some portion of their income, helping them to start small businesses or pursue further studies once their National Service is complete.

3. Contribute to Reducing Unemployment: If service personnel have the means to save during their service, they would be better positioned to start small businesses after their service year, thereby reducing unemployment and boosting Ghana’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Conclusion

I, therefore, appeal to the NPP government and the National Service Scheme to act urgently by increasing the monthly allowances of National Service personnel to GHS 2,200. This increase will not only alleviate the financial burden on service personnel but also empower them to contribute meaningfully to national development during and after their service.

At a time when the youth of Ghana are being called upon to help rebuild the nation, it is imperative that they are provided with the necessary support to succeed. The government must demonstrate its commitment to the youth by ensuring that their allowances reflect the economic realities they face, allowing them to serve the country with focus, energy, and hope for the future.

Signed

Joel Samuel Ndede, Jomoro NDC Deputy Communications Officer

Tel: 0543257294