Final-year students at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) erupted into applause, chants, and songs as the National Service Authority (NSA) held its pre-service orientation at the New Examination Centre. Organised to prepare students for their upcoming mandatory national service, the event was packed with energy, guidance, and patriotic fervour.

The orientation aimed to educate prospective National Service Personnel (NSP) about the value of national service, its impact on personal development, and its broader contribution to Ghana’s progress. Attendees described the experience as inspiring, with many calling it “life-defining.”

Prof. Daniel Apaak, Dean of Students and Associate Professor in the Department of Health, addressed the students with a message of attentiveness and purpose.

“Be attentive, take notes, and engage meaningfully. The experiences and lessons shared here will guide your service journey and shape your contribution to Ghana”
Prof. Daniel Apaak, Dean of Students, UCC

His remarks set the tone for what would become an emotionally charged session that blended information with motivation.

Taking the stage in striking military attire, Director of Operations at the NSA, Hon. Fuseini Donkor, challenged students to embrace agricultural sectors as part of their national service deployment. He underscored that modern agriculture is no longer defined by basic tools but is a gateway to entrepreneurship and innovation.

“The NSA isn’t only deploying you to serve. We are equipping you to become employers. The era of settling for less due to job scarcity is over. Agriculture today is modern, profit-driven, and full of opportunities”
Hon. Fuseini Donkor, Director of Operations, NSA

As he spoke, chants of “Mmarima mo nsɔre oo” broke out among the students, a humorous yet admiring salute to his military-style appearance. The hall roared with laughter and applause, creating a spirited environment that reflected the enthusiasm of the student body.

The military theme carried deeper significance. Hon. Donkor revealed that Casely Hayford Hall (Casford Hall) would serve as the base for piloting military-style training for NSP. This training, he said, is designed to cultivate discipline and leadership, not combat skills.

“This military-style training is not for warfare. However, it is to build your resilience and sharpen your leadership capabilities for the workplace”
Hon. Fuseini Donkor, Director of Operations, NSA

Adding another layer of excitement, Deputy Director of Finance and Administration at the NSA, Ruth Dela Seddoh, hinted at a possible upward review of national service allowances. She lauded the government for its responsiveness in addressing arrears and ensuring timely payments under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama.

“We have seen evidence of a leadership that cares – We are optimistic about better remuneration in the near future,” she added.

Ms. Seddoh also encouraged students to approach rural postings with an open mind, painting them as opportunities for growth, discovery, and even romance.

“Some of you may meet your future spouses there, learn to survive with little, build lasting relationships, and even discover business opportunities. Embrace the challenge, be disciplined, and the rewards will follow”
Ruth Dela Seddoh, Deputy Director of Finance and Administration, NSA

The programme was capped by a practical guide from Mr. Yaw Tweneboah Kodua, Assistant Director for Deployment at NSA, who meticulously explained the deployment process. He urged students to approach the procedure with integrity and care to avoid delays or disqualification.

Throughout the day, students remained engaged and inspired, asking questions, sharing reactions, and celebrating moments with cheers and standing ovations. The NSA’s messaging resonated deeply, driven by a combination of humour, realism, and nationalistic appeal.

The National Service Authority’s on-campus engagement at UCC reaffirmed its commitment not only to deploying young people across the country but also to empowering them with purpose, pride, and practical insight.

By addressing allowance concerns, introducing leadership training, and encouraging strategic deployment choices, the NSA offered students a panoramic view of national service beyond obligation – a view of it as opportunity.