NSS, KNUST to deepen collaboration

The National Service Scheme (NSS) is set to deepen its collaboration with the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to enhance mutual benefits in the coming years.

The initiative aims to establish a comprehensive partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) encompassing fields such as agricultural engineering, sports science, business and accounting.

The Executive Director of the NSS, Osei Assibey Antwi, proposed this strategic partnership during a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor of KNUST in Kumasi.

Potential benefits
Mr. Assibey Antwi emphasised the potential benefits of this collaboration, highlighting the critical role of research and data analysis.

“I am convinced that by jointly conducting research, both institutions could gain a better understanding of the evolving demands of industry and various market players. This, in turn, would help inform the training and deployment of NSS personnel and address the persistent issue of industry-personnel skill mismatches,” he noted.

He added that the proposed collaboration between NSS and KNUST marks a significant step towards aligning academic training with industry requirements.

“I believe this collaboration will enhance a more dynamic and responsive approach to national service deployment and ensure that graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the modern workforce,” he indicated.

He mentioned that a notable aspect of the proposed partnership is the establishment of a dedicated on-campus NSS office at KNUST.

Logistical challenges
Mr. Assibey Antwi explained that this office would alleviate the logistical challenges faced by NSS personnel and staff, particularly the need to travel from campus to the Municipal or Regional Secretariat to submit monthly evaluation forms.

“The on-campus office would also streamline the processing and payment of monthly allowances for NSS personnel, ensuring greater efficiency and convenience. I believe this will go a long way towards reducing the stress NSP sometimes encounter when evaluation forms are out and allowances are paid,” he stated.

The Ashanti Regional NSS Director, Mr. Prince Kankam Boadu, accompanied Mr. Assibey Antwi during the visit. He commended KNUST for its exemplary organization of a recent orientation programme for National Service personnel, which saw significant participation at the university.

Commitment
For her part, the Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Professor Mrs. Rita Dickson, welcomed the NSS's proposals, and expressed the university's commitment to supporting the NSS in enhancing their systems and providing essential support to graduates.

“I acknowledge the importance of such collaborations in strengthening the relationship between the university and the national service scheme. Ultimately, this will benefit the broader community. It is a good initiative, and we are fully in support,” she assured.

Meanwhile, the meeting equally saw the presence of the Registrar of KNUST, Andrews Akwasi Boateng, who, along with other university officials, expressed optimism about the proposed initiatives and their potential impact on the university's operations and the professional development of its students.