#SONA2025: Mahama introduces military training for national service personnel

President John Dramani Mahama has announced the introduction of military-style training for national service personnel as part of efforts to instill discipline and physical fitness among young people.

Delivering his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday, February 27 2025, he also outlined plans to tackle youth unemployment and corruption within the National Service Scheme.

Military training to be part of national service

Mr Mahama stated that the government would introduce short paramilitary training for all national service personnel to equip young graduates with discipline, resilience, and teamwork skills before they enter the workforce.

“We will introduce short military training as part of our national service scheme. This will instil a sense of fitness and discipline into our youth,” he said.

The initiative is part of broader national service reforms following the passage of the National Service Authority Act 2024 (Act 1119).

The president has directed the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment to present a legislative instrument to Parliament to formalise these changes.

New ministry to address youth unemployment

With youth unemployment estimated at 2 million, Mr Mahama described the situation as a national security concern requiring urgent attention.

He indicated the creation of the Ministry for Youth Development and Empowerment will be responsible for coordinating and monitoring youth employment programmes.

“This ministry will bring much-needed structure and accountability to the various scattered youth employment initiatives,” he stated.