The X Space discussion by The High Street Journal and Axis Human Capital on the topic” After National Service What Next” revealed the uneven realities graduates face after completing national service in Ghana. For some, the programme became a launchpad for unexpected careers and entrepreneurship. Deborah Akusika Buatsi, for instance, used her teaching role to reimagine her prospects after unfulfilled promises, while Solomon Boakye, turned an internship into a journalism career despite studying economics. These experiences underscored the value of adaptability and self-motivation.
Preparation for post-service life, however, varies widely across institutions. Some universities deliberately integrate career services, entrepreneurship training, and career fairs into their curricula, giving students a head start. Others, particularly larger public universities with thousands of students, struggle to provide meaningful guidance. This unevenness leaves many graduates entering the job market without the tools to navigate it.
The conversation also touched on the underutilisation of national service personnel, who are sometimes relegated to running errands instead of gaining practical exposure. Such placements represent a missed opportunity for both the individuals and the wider economy, diluting the scheme’s potential to serve as a genuine bridge to employment. In some cases, personnels also relegate themselves to be errand boys and girls, failing to learn, making excuses of “there is nothing to do” or ‘I have not been assigned any task.”
Joseph Nii Otinkorang Ankrah an HR professional with Axis Human Capital, stressed that volunteerism can make a decisive difference. Service personnel who actively seek additional responsibilities often get the attention of employers and later secure permanent roles. Graduates were also encouraged to take initiatives, and ready to learn.
Entrepreneurship emerged as another pathway, but with important caveats. While some graduates embrace entrepreneurship to solve problems and create value, others see it as a way to avoid formal workplace structures. Dr. Esi Ansah, the Chief Executive of Axis Human Capital, cautioned that entrepreneurship must be driven by innovation and problem-solving rather than resistance to authority, recognizing the importance of grounding business ventures in real market needs.
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Beyond universities, the discussion pointed to the need for broader support ecosystems. Communities, religious institutions, and professional networks could play a stronger role in linking graduates to employers and mentors. Sharing this responsibility would ease the burden on universities and provide young people with multiple pathways to succeed after service.
Ultimately, the conversation made clear that success after national service is less about the scheme itself and more about intentionality, from institutions that prepare graduates and from young people themselves. While structural challenges persist, those who approach the year with initiative and adaptability are best positioned to turn it into a meaningful stepping stone.
