The Industry Relations Department of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), has held a one-day orientation session for final-year students ahead of their mandatory National Service.
The workshop, held on Friday, April 25, was organised to equip students with the necessary knowledge and guidance on the National Service application process and expectations.
Director of the Industry Relations Department, Rev. Theophilus Tetteh, stated that the orientation aimed to demystify the National Service process and provide clarity on how students can prepare adequately for life after school.
He emphasised that the initiative was in line with UPSA’s commitment to ensuring students transition smoothly from academic life into professional practice.
Director-General of the National Service Authority, Mr. Felix Gyamfi, urged the students to approach their service year with patriotism, professionalism, and a desire to contribute meaningfully to national development.
He also encouraged them to see the period not as a formality but as a valuable opportunity to acquire relevant work experience.
Mr Gyamfi cautioned the students against falling victim to unscrupulous individuals posing as agents or middlemen who promise to influence their postings for a fee.
He pointed out that the National Service placement process is entirely transparent, free, and fair.
“Do not pay any money to anyone claiming they can get you posted to a preferred institution,” Mr Gyamfi warned. “Such actions are fraudulent, and students who engage with these individuals do so at their own risk.”
Mr Gyamfi urged students to trust the official process and seek support only from authorised service officials or the National Service portal.
For her part, the Greater Accra Regional Director of the National Service Scheme (NSS), Jennifer Appiah Bempah, stressed the importance of approaching the service year with commitment and enthusiasm, encouraging the students to make their impact felt in any capacity they find themselves.
She took the students through a step-by-step guide and gave a detailed explanation of the National Service application and registration procedures.
Her presentation included timelines, requirements, key documents, and how to navigate the NSS online portal.
The orientation concluded with an interactive session where students asked questions and received responses on various aspects of the National Service scheme.
