National Service personnel across Ghana are celebrating after receiving three months’ worth of outstanding allowance arrears. The long-awaited payment has brought relief and excitement among the personnel, who had been vocal about the challenges they faced due to the delayed allowances.
According To Yen, News of the payment broke on social media, with many personnel sharing their joy and expressing gratitude. Some posted videos and photos of themselves jubilating, while others described how the funds would help ease the financial burdens they had endured for months.
“It’s been tough surviving without the allowance, but today, we can finally smile. Thank you to the National Service Secretariat for addressing our concerns,” said a visibly excited service member in a viral video.
The backlog of arrears had caused frustration among many personnel, with some resorting to borrowing to meet basic needs such as transportation, food, and accommodation. Several groups had previously petitioned the National Service Scheme (NSS) and relevant authorities to expedite the payment process.
The National Service Scheme, in a statement, confirmed the disbursement of the arrears, assuring personnel of its commitment to ensuring timely payment of future allowances. “We acknowledge the inconvenience caused by the delay and sincerely apologize. Measures are being put in place to prevent a recurrence,” the statement read.
The payment of the arrears has sparked discussions on the need for better financial management and prompt payment of allowances to prevent such situations in the future. Many have called on the government and the NSS to introduce reforms that will guarantee the financial stability of personnel during their service year.
Meanwhile, financial experts have advised the jubilant personnel to manage their funds wisely, emphasizing the importance of saving and budgeting. “Receiving three months’ allowance at once is exciting, but it’s crucial to spend it responsibly and plan for the remaining months,” an economist noted.
With the arrears now paid, service personnel can focus on completing their national service duties without the financial stress that had plagued them in recent months. Many remain hopeful that such delays will not occur again.