The National Service Scheme (NSS) has announced that its registration platform will be closed on Friday, amid what officials say is an unusually low turnout among personnel deployed for the 2024/2025 service year.
Deputy Executive Director in charge of Operations, Fuseini Donkor, revealed that only about 50% of posted graduates have completed the mandatory registration process, despite repeated national reminders.
Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show, Mr. Donkor said several regional NSS offices are virtually inactive because many personnel have simply refused to report to their designated institutions.
“By Friday, we are shutting the system,” he warned.
“It’s already Wednesday, and half of them have still not reported. The system can take even a million registrations, but people must show up.”
Delays Linked to Attempts to Manipulate Postings
Mr. Donkor highlighted what he described as intentional delays by some graduates who hope to later bribe middlemen to alter their postings.
“The pressure they put on the system is becoming too much,” he lamented.
“Most regional offices are idle because some people think, ‘I’ll bring money later and change it.’ Please, by Friday, we’re locking it.”
This follows recurring concerns over the years about unauthorised agents exploiting graduates by offering illegal posting changes for a fee. The NSS has consistently clarified that reposting is only granted for medical or humanitarian reasons—and only through official procedures.
NSS Strengthening Processes to Reduce Fraud
The Scheme says it is modernising its operations to curb fraud and increase efficiency. In July 2024, it launched a digital certificate system to streamline verification and reduce forgery. Earlier this year, the NSS also warned the public about fake social media accounts advertising paid posting changes.
Consequences of Missing the Deadline
With the Friday deadline approaching, NSS officials say further updates will be issued to guide personnel. Graduates who fail to register may lose their service year entirely, potentially delaying job opportunities, as many employers require an NSS certificate.
Each year, the NSS deploys graduates to key sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and local government. Full commencement of the 2024/2025 service year will begin once registration closes.
