National Service Scheme (NSS) personnel across the country have been urged to take full advantage of career fairs, entrepreneurship programmes, and volunteer opportunities as essential stepping stones to build resilience, sharpen skills, and prepare for the job market.
The call was made during an X-Space Live session hosted by The High Street Journal in partnership with Axis Human Capital, which brought together students, HR experts, and young professionals to discuss career readiness for national service personnel.
Speaking at the session, Mr. Nii Otinkorang, a Human Resource expert at Axis Human Capital, described the initiative as timely and critical for young graduates entering the workforce.
“Career fairs and entrepreneurship programmes are not just optional events; they are tools that prepare NSS personnel to think critically, volunteer meaningfully, and build resilience. These qualities are what employers value most today,” he stressed.
He added that networking was equally vital for success, noting that the professional connections made during national service often open doors to permanent employment opportunities.
The programme also showcased the NSS’s ongoing initiatives, including career fairs and a two-year entrepreneurship development programme, designed to support graduates with skills in innovation, leadership, and self-employment.
Papa Kofi, a graduate from Academic University who is preparing for his national service, described the initiative as transformative. “It’s a learning journey for me. Beyond just serving, I see national service as a platform to test myself, gain real-world experience, and start building the career I want,” he said.
Participants agreed that national service should not be treated as a mere requirement but as an orientation into the world of work. Experts emphasized the need for NSS to create more open sessions and orientations to help personnel adjust to organizational culture and expectations, especially in industries demanding creativity and problem-solving.
The session also highlighted three critical areas NSS personnel must prepare themselves for: the ability to analyze and solve problems in real time, using national service opportunities to build transferable skills and give back to society, and also the mental toughness to adapt and thrive in challenging environments.
Mr. Otinkorang urged NSS personnel not to shy away from volunteerism, stressing that it often sets candidates apart during job recruitment. “Employers look for evidence of initiative.
“Volunteering shows you are proactive, committed, and open to growth,” he added.
Organizers of the event pledged to continue creating platforms where young people can engage with professionals, develop entrepreneurial skills, and position themselves for the evolving job market.
With Ghana’s unemployment challenges still persisting, such initiatives are seen as vital to bridging the gap between education and employment, ensuring national service personnel transition smoothly into fulfilling careers.
