Sam Jonah proposes one year military service for graduates

By Issah Mohammed/ Belinda Kpentey

Accra, Nov 6, GNA – Sir Sam Jonah, Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), has proposed a remodelling of the National Service Scheme to require graduates and individuals over the age of 19 to serve in the military for a year.

He suggested that this initiative should be part of a larger strategy aimed at instilling discipline, confidence, and resilience in the youth of the country.

“The concept of national service while commendable must be looked at critically to ensure the building of character in all our youth…we need leaders in our young men and women now more

than ever, leaders, not followers, who will ensure the right thing is done where and when it must be done,” he said.

Speaking at the Graphic National Development Series on education, Sir Jonah emphasized the need for a transformation of the Ghanaian mindset through educational reforms that prioritize patriotism.

He stressed that such reforms were essential for ensuring that Ghana could compete effectively on the global stage.

Sir Jonah also expressed concern over the practice of institutionalizing the purchase and distribution of past examination papers to students.

He criticized this approach, arguing that it promotes rote learning and memorization, rather than focusing on true content comprehension and fostering innovative thinking.

“Schools should not be places where students simply memorise answers to pass exams; they must become environments that inspire problem-solving, creativity, and resilience.

“We need a shift from a focus on grades to nurturing leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs capable of transforming our economy,” he said.

The former Chief Executive Officer of Ashanti Goldfields Company also observed that the lack of discipline and “abysmal failure of accountability structures” was ever present in the destruction of the natural environment through illegal mining also known as Galamsey.

He said that the culture of permissiveness in the face of corruption and environmental degradation must end, noting that, “We must demand more from our leaders, and ourselves. We must foster a culture of integrity where public office is a sacred trust, not a shortcut to wealth.”

“The devastation caused to our water bodies, forests, and people’s health is immeasurable. But to all this, government after government have looked away and shamelessly displayed insensitivity, especially in election years,” he said.

Reverend Professor Seth Asare-Danso, an educationist said the current educational system focused on knowledge and skill acquisition with less priority on moral education, thereby creating a challenge for the country.

“Our educational system is producing intellectuals who are skillful and knowledgeable but when we come to the moral aspect that is where we lack. It is for this that we have people deviating from the norm,” he added.

The theme for the programme, “A critical look at education and culture in Ghana to chart a course of national development, peace, and our collective prosperity.”

GNA