The National Service Scheme (NSS) has officially transitioned into the National Service Authority(NSA) following the enactment of the National Service Authority Act (Act 1119) by Parliament.

The launch event took place in Accra on Friday, October 18, with President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo presiding.

In his keynote address, President Akufo-Addo praised the significant contributions of the NSS to national development, highlighting that the scheme saves the country over 3 billion Cedis annually.

He emphasized that the newly established National Service Authority will remain a crucial institution in preparing young Ghanaians for nation-building.

He also noted its enhanced role under the next administration, expected to be led by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Daniel Mc-Korley, advocated for national service to be made mandatory, stressing its importance in instilling discipline and patriotism among the youth.

He also proposed a partnership between the National Service Authority, his foundation, and his salt industry to support its initiatives.

Mr Osei Assibey Antwi, the first Director-General of the National Service Authority, in his welcome address, commended the President for his unwavering support of youth development.

He explained that the transformation of the NSS into an authority demonstrates the government’s commitment to strengthening institutions.

He further called for additional government support, particularly in the procurement of equipment and securing farmland for agricultural projects under the authority's name to boost the Free Senior High School (FSHS) programme.

He also appealed to the Finance Minister for financial assistance to expand the authority’s accounting aid and its collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC).

NSS Board Chairman, Nii Odoi Tetteyfio, underscored the importance of this transition, noting that it would enhance the capacity and jurisdiction of the institution to operate more efficiently.

He added that efforts are underway to improve remuneration for NSS staff, aligning with the authority's new status, which would create more opportunities for growth and sustainability.

Minister for Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, also spoke at the event, commending the remarkable progress made in the education sector under President Akufo-Addo’s leadership.

He attributed part of this success to the critical role the NSS has played in national development.