Sir Sam Jonah calls for compulsory Military National Service to build character in Ghana’s youth

In a bold proposal aimed at reshaping Ghana’s approach to youth development, Sir Sam Jonah, Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast, has called for the introduction of compulsory military national service.

Speaking today at the Kofi Ohene-Konadu Auditorium at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), Sir Sam delivered a keynote address that focused on “A critical look at education and culture in Ghana to chart a course of national development, peace and our collective prosperity.”

Sir Sam argued that Ghana's current national service scheme, while commendable, could go further in building character and discipline among young people. 

He urged that Ghana should model its national service on programmes in countries like Finland, South Korea, and Israel, where individuals aged 18 and above serve a mandatory one-year military service. This, he believes, would instil discipline, confidence, and resilience in young people while fostering a stronger sense of duty to the nation.

"I strongly advocate that we model our national service on similar ones in Finland, South Korea, Israel, and other nations where graduates and persons aged over 18 serve compulsorily in the Military for one year," he stated. 

Sir Sam explained that this approach would do more than just benefit the individuals; it would nurture future leaders equipped with the skills and ethics needed to lead responsibly. 

“It is a commitment to country because it builds character and the good sense to look out for one another,” he noted, emphasising that such a programme would inspire accountability, a quality he believes is critical to leadership.

Sir Sam expressed deep concern over the need for strong, principled leaders who would be prepared to “ensure the right thing is done where and when it must be done.” 

He underscored the urgent need to cultivate leaders rather than followers among Ghana's youth, particularly in light of the country’s future socio-economic challenges.