The Director-General of the National Service Scheme (NSS), Felix Gyamfi, has announced stringent measures to eliminate fraudulent registrations and close systemic loopholes in the National Service Scheme. These reforms aim to ensure transparency and prevent financial exploitation of the program.

Key Eligibility Criteria for National Service

1. Graduates Must Be from GTEC-Accredited Institutions
• Only graduates from tertiary institutions accredited by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) will be eligible for national service.
• Mr. Gyamfi emphasized, "If your institution lacks proper GTEC accreditation, you will not be permitted to participate in the National Service Scheme."
2. Mandatory Ghana Card for Registration and Verification
• All applicants must possess a valid Ghana Card to access the enrollment portal. No alternative forms of identification will be accepted.
• Biometric verification using the Ghana Card will be required monthly throughout the service period, ensuring continuous eligibility checks.
• "Our system will restrict payment validation to NSS offices, and any attempt to bypass this process will be flagged," Gyamfi stated.

Rationale for the Reforms

The new measures address longstanding issues, including:

• Ghost names on the NSS payroll.
• Double-dipping by individuals receiving salaries from other government agencies while enrolled in national service.
• Exploitation by unqualified applicants from unaccredited institutions.

To further strengthen accountability, the NSS is integrating its payment platform with the Controller and Accountant General’s Department (CAGD). This will automatically cross-check payroll data to prevent duplicate payments.

Expected Impact

• A significant reduction in the number of eligible service personnel for 2025 due to stricter vetting.
• Enhanced fiscal discipline, ensuring state funds are allocated only to legitimate beneficiaries.

Background

These reforms follow a recent scandal involving former NSS officials who allegedly misappropriated funds using ghost names. The updated criteria reaffirm the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in national service operations.

Next Steps for Applicants:

• Verify your institution’s accreditation status via GTEC’s official channels.
• Obtain your Ghana Card if you have not yet done so.
• Monitor the NSS website for further updates on registration timelines.