Accra Metro NASPA President, Prince Kojo Baafi, has urged National Service personnel to embrace leadership, innovation, integrity and professional development as they prepare to transition into the world of work.
Speaking at the LEAP Fair, Baafi kojo prince explained that the initiative was designed to equip National Service personnel with the knowledge, skills and opportunities needed to successfully navigate life after their national service.
He said LEAP is built around four key pillars: Leadership Development, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Abroad Education and Global Pathways, and Professional and Career Readiness.
According to him, the Leadership Development pillar focuses on building character, integrity, accountability and problem-solving skills among young people.
Mr, Baafi cautioned participants against equating leadership with titles, social status, popularity or the number of followers one has on social media.
He stressed that true leadership is not about personal gain but about making a meaningful contribution to society.
“A real leader must ask, ‘What can I contribute?’ rather than ‘What can I get?” he said.
He explained that leadership requires individuals to keep their word, accept responsibility for their actions, make difficult decisions when necessary and serve others even when there is no recognition or reward.
Baafi Kojo further encouraged National Service personnel not to wait until they become chief executive officers, business owners or occupy influential positions before demonstrating leadership.
He said leadership begins with everyday actions, including how individuals treat others, how dependable they are and their willingness to take initiative in solving problems.
He noted that Ghana needs a new generation of leaders who will move beyond occupying positions and focus on developing practical solutions to the challenges confronting the country.
The LEAP Fair also seeks to expose National Service personnel to entrepreneurship and innovation, international education and career opportunities, as well as practical skills required to succeed in the professional environment.
Baafi kojo prince urged participants to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the initiative and position themselves for meaningful careers and greater contributions to national development.
