President John Dramani Mahama has signalled possible changes to the fees charged for applications into Ghana’s security services, describing the current system as a strain on jobless young people.
He said the issue will be taken to Cabinet for consideration as part of broader efforts to reform recruitment processes and make them more accessible, while still maintaining high standards for enlistment.
The President made the comments during a Presidential Dialogue at the Jubilee House, where he acknowledged growing public concern over the cost of applying and calls for reforms, including demands to refund disqualified applicants.
According to him, recruitment should not rely solely on academic aptitude, but also take into account other factors such as physical ability and psychological readiness.
He explained that in real-life security situations, individuals with high academic scores may not always be the most suitable, stressing the need for a balanced selection approach.
“Aptitude doesn’t carry… it’s not only aptitude,” he noted, adding that the system must be designed to identify candidates who can perform effectively under pressure.
Mahama also described the financial burden placed on applicants, many of whom are unemployed but are required to pay fees to apply, only to be disqualified later in the process.
“To pay an unemployed person… and then you get disqualified. I mean, it’s a very painful thing,” he said.
He indicated that while no final decision has been made, government is actively reviewing the issue with a view to improving fairness and transparency in future recruitment exercises.
