Research has proven that only 10% of tertiary graduates secure employment after completing their one-year mandatory national service, the Head of Revenue Mobilisation at the National Service Authority, Eric Okyei, has disclosed.
Underscoring the importance of making the most of the service year, the National Service Authority (NSA) official has advised prospective service personnel to set themselves apart through dedication and diligence.
The Director General of the National Service Authority (NSA), Osei Assibey Antwi, following the research has called on the 2024/2025 National Service Personnel (NSP) to uphold integrity and hard work throughout the service year.
He cautioned them against unethical practices, such as cutting corners, and emphasized the importance of maintaining high ethical standards.
Mr. Antwi made the call during an orientation program organised by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in collaboration with the NSA to provide essential information to the personnel about their roles and responsibilities in the revenue-generating body.
Speaking during his address, Osei Assibey Antwi emphasised the importance of diligence and hard work. He admonished personnel deployed to the organization to prioritize experience over the mere strong desire to work for the GRA because of the prestige.
He encouraged the service personnel to embrace their postings, regardless of the department, and give their best effort.
“I must indicate that GRA is a vast institution, and wherever you are posted, you must embrace it wholeheartedly. Don’t cut corners. Besides, God might be orchestrating something big for you,” he stated.
The Director General also mentioned the value of being proactive and innovative, recounting a success story of seven previous service personnel who identified and solved a problem during their service year.
According to him, these personnel collaborated with the NSA’s business development unit to address the issue, which eventually led to them securing permanent employment with the company.
For his part, Assistant Commissioner for Employee Relations and Welfare at GRA, David Debbie, warned against lateness, truancy, and indecent dressing. He urged the personnel to exhibit professionalism and be mindful of their behaviour in the workplace.
“Such irresponsible behaviours are not worthwhile in the world of work. Be time-conscious and act responsibly,” he advised.
The Assistant Commissioner of Recruitment, Placements, and Promotions, Patrick Larteh, also encouraged the personnel to embrace their postings and view them as opportunities for learning and networking, noting that national service provides a unique platform for professional growth.