Dear Editor,

I write to express concern about the uncertainty facing many National Service personnel after completing their mandatory service.

Every year thousands of young graduates are posted to various institutions across the country where they contribute significantly to productivity and service delivery.

Unfortunately, after their service period, many are left unemployed despite demonstrating competence, dedication, and commitment to duty.

In many offices, National Service personnel perform the same responsibilities as permanent staff and in some cases help reduce workload pressures.

It is therefore discouraging that after gaining practical experience and contributing to national development, they are often asked to leave without any opportunity for permanent employment.

This situation has contributed to rising unemployment and frustration among the youth.

I would like to appeal to the government, public institutions, and private organisations to consider retaining hardworking National Service personnel whenever vacancies arise.

Creating a clear pathway for permanent employment after service would motivate young graduates to give off their best and also help reduce graduate unemployment in the country.

Eugene Ampiaw

Mamprobi-Camara.

Dear Editor,

Walking along roads in some parts of the capital has become increasingly challenging.

While trading on pedestrian walkways remains a concern in certain areas, the parking of vehicles on road shoulders also poses a serious risk to pedestrians.

Often, pedestrians are forced to walk dangerously close to these parked vehicles or even step into the middle of the road to make way for oncoming traffic.

This situation is not only frustrating but also highly unsafe.

I recall an incident when I alighted at a lorry station and was walking home. A Tata bus was approaching, and due to vehicles parked on both sides of the road, I had nowhere to walk safely.

The situation became so dangerous that I had to quickly jump into a nearby shop to avoid being knocked down by the oncoming Tata bus.

That experience was frightening and could have easily resulted in an accident.

In my view, it is time for authorities in the road sector, such as the National Road Safety Authority and the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, to take urgent action to address this issue and prevent possible loss of life.

Strict enforcement measures, including towing improperly parked vehicles and imposing substantial fines, would serve as a deterrent to offenders.

From Ray

Adabraka