Some former National Service Personnel applying for a four-week Basic Military Training programme believe it could improve their chances of joining the Ghana Armed Forces in future recruitment exercises.
More than 3,000 applicants, including about 600 females, have registered for the initiative, which is scheduled to begin in December 2026. However, only 2,000 will be chosen after medical screening and the wider selection process.
The applicants were speaking to TV3 during medical assessments at the Ghana Armed Forces Critical Care Centre. Many said their interest in the programme extended beyond the possibility of future military enlistment, with discipline, patriotism, resilience and personal development among the qualities they hoped to gain.
The medical assessment is the first stage of the selection exercise. It includes a review of applicants’ medical histories to establish whether they are suitable to take part in the training.
Ruth Dela Seddoh, Director-General of the National Service Authority, urged applicants to remain focused and committed as they moved through the process.
She also encouraged them to prepare for the demands of military training, approach the exercise with discipline and remain willing to learn. Ms Seddoh stressed the need for participants to make the most of the opportunity if selected.
The Ghana Armed Forces has, however, warned applicants that completing the programme will not amount to automatic entry into the military.
The initiative is intended to provide basic military training and introduce participants to military discipline. Successful completion will not give participants military status or guarantee enlistment into the Ghana Armed Forces.
Anyone who later wishes to join the military will still have to meet the relevant requirements and complete the established recruitment procedures when positions become available.
Despite that clarification, some applicants said the prospect of strengthening their position in future recruitment exercises remained one reason for applying.
Others said they were primarily attracted by the experience and the opportunity for personal growth. They expect the training to develop discipline, patriotism, teamwork and a greater sense of national responsibility.
The scheme is designed to give selected former National Service Personnel an introduction to basic military training while helping them develop values associated with personal development and service to the country.
The first group of successful applicants is expected to report to the designated training school on December 1, 2026, when the four-week programme begins.
