The Executive Director of the National Service Scheme (NSS), Honourable Osei Assibey Antwi, has announced a strategic initiative to strengthen the collaboration between the NSS and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi. This announcement was made during a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Professor (Mrs) Rita Akosua Dickson, at the Council Chamber of the University on Friday, 31st May 2024.
Hon. Antwi emphasised the relationship between KNUST and the NSS, acknowledging the mutual benefits derived over the years. He articulated the need to deepen the partnership by identifying areas for improvement and support. One significant proposal he disclosed was establishing a dedicated NSS Office space on the KNUST campus to address some of the challenges faced by NSS personnel, who currently need to leave their official duties to visit district offices to submit evaluation forms. ‘The new office space will streamline administrative processes, facilitate the timely disbursement of allowances, and enable better planning by accurately forecasting the number of graduates ready for service, thereby reducing skills mismatch’ he stated.
Additionally, Hon. Osei Assibey Antwi expressed a keen interest in collaborating with KNUST on research and data analysis. This collaboration, he said will focus on understanding the evolving demands of various industries, ensuring that the training and deployment of NSS personnel align with market needs. He also highlighted the intention to formalise this partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), covering areas such as Agricultural Engineering, Sports Science, Business, and Accounting.
In her response, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor (Mrs) Rita Akosua Dickson, commended the NSS for its integral role within the University framework. She urged the NSS leadership to collaborate closely with University to draft the proposed MoU, ensuring a seamless transition and effective implementation of the collaborative initiatives. She reiterated the KNUST's commitment to supporting the NSS in enhancing its systems and providing essential support to graduates.
Mr. Prince Kankam Boadu, the Ashanti Regional NSS Director, who accompanied Hon. Antwi, lauded KNUST for its exemplary organisation of the recent orientation programme held for National Service Personnel, which saw a remarkable turnout at the Great Hall of the University.
The Executive Director and the Ashanti Regional Director seized the opportunity to present the 2024-2034 National Service Policy to the Vice-Chancellor.
The Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Professor Christian Agyare, and Mr. Andrew Kwasi Boateng, the Registrar of KNUST were present at the meeting.