The National Service Personnel Association (NASPA) has defended the controversial GH¢60 deduction from the allowances of National Service personnel, clarifying that the initiative was conceived and implemented by the Association and not by the National Service Authority (NSA).
In a communiqué issued on Sunday, NASPA said the clarification had become necessary to address what it described as misinformation surrounding the deduction and to explain the purpose, legality and benefits of the Capacity Building Programme.
“The GH¢60.00 deduction towards the programme is an initiative of the National Service Personnel Association, and not an initiative of the National Service Authority,” the statement said.
According to NASPA, the Capacity Building Programme began in February 2026 after it was officially announced through the Association’s communication channels.
The Association said the programme forms part of its efforts to equip National Service personnel with practical skills, career readiness training and professional development support to prepare them for employment after completing their national service.
NASPA maintained that the deduction was neither arbitrary nor unexplained, stating that it had been approved by the NASPA Council and communicated to personnel before implementation.
It explained that the amount constitutes an initial payment towards the cost of training, coordination, facilitation, logistics, certification and the continued implementation of the programme nationwide.
The Association also disclosed that the programme remains ongoing, with mop-up training sessions expected to be conducted across all regions and districts to ensure every service person benefits.
Acknowledging concerns raised by some personnel over the deductions, NASPA said such contributions are sometimes necessary to enable the Association to fulfil its mandate of promoting the welfare and development of National Service personnel.
However, it indicated that efforts are underway to secure alternative funding sources, including donor support, to finance similar programmes in the future without requiring deductions from personnel’s monthly allowances.
“We are taking necessary steps to explore other funding options in the future for such important programmes through donor support, so that our members do not have to pay from their allowances,” the communiqué stated.
The Association appealed to National Service personnel to cooperate with the initiative, arguing that the programme is designed to enhance participants’ employability, professional confidence and readiness for the job market.
NASPA further assured personnel of its commitment to transparency, accountability and value for money, promising continued engagement and regular updates on the programme’s implementation.
The Association also announced plans to establish a dedicated helpline to enable National Service personnel to submit complaints, seek clarification and make enquiries more easily.
The communiqué was signed by the NASPA National Executive Committee, which reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to advancing the welfare, development and advocacy interests of National Service personnel across the country under the slogan, “NASPA, Ready to Serve!”
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Source: www.kumasimail.com
