The National Service Personnel Association (NASPA) has suspended its nationwide Capacity Building Programme with immediate effect following concerns raised by service personnel over the initiative.
The association announced the decision at a press conference held in Accra on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, explaining that the suspension will allow for a comprehensive review of the programme.
According to NASPA, the move follows feedback from National Service personnel and a directive from the Management of the National Service Authority (NSA), acting on instructions from the Minister for Youth, Empowerment and Development, George Opare Addo.
The Capacity Building Programme was introduced to provide National Service personnel with additional skills aimed at improving their employability after completing their mandatory service.
NASPA President Abdul Wahab explained that the initiative was conceived in December 2023 by the National Executive Council as a response to challenges surrounding post-service unemployment.
He said the programme was designed to equip personnel with practical and industry-focused skills in areas including information technology, coding, digital marketing, entrepreneurship, project management, and agricultural business.
The association noted that a pilot phase conducted in the Greater Accra Region in 2024 received encouraging feedback, leading to plans for a nationwide rollout in partnership with Zeus Atlas Limited.
However, the programme faced criticism following concerns about deductions from the allowances of service personnel and the level of consultation before its implementation.
NASPA disclosed that it had earlier requested the National Service Authority to facilitate a deduction of GH¢60 from personnel to support four months of training, covering costs already incurred.
Following the concerns raised, the National Service Authority directed that the programme be suspended immediately.
“We wish to assure every National Service Personnel that there will be no further deductions on behalf of, or in relation to this capacity training,” the NASPA President stated.
Mr. Abdul Wahab further indicated that personnel who have already had deductions made are being reviewed to determine whether refunds will be issued.
He added that details regarding the total amount deducted from affected personnel will be made public after the review process is completed.
NASPA welcomed the suspension directive, assuring National Service personnel that the association remains committed to promoting transparency and prioritising their welfare.
The association said it will continue working towards building a stronger and more responsive NASPA that addresses the concerns of service personnel.
