Delivering his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday, February 27  2025, he also outlined plans to tackle youth unemployment and corruption within the National Service Scheme.

Mr Mahama stated that the government would introduce short paramilitary training for all national service personnel to equip young graduates with discipline, resilience, and teamwork skills before they enter the workforce.

“We will introduce short military training as part of our national service scheme. This will instil a sense of fitness and discipline into our youth,” he said.

The initiative is part of broader national service reforms following the passage of the National Service Authority Act 2024 (Act 1119).

The president has directed the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment to present a legislative instrument to Parliament to formalise these changes.

With youth unemployment estimated at 2 million, Mr Mahama described the situation as a national security concern requiring urgent attention.

He indicated the creation of the Ministry for Youth Development and Empowerment will be responsible for coordinating and monitoring youth employment programmes.

“This ministry will bring much-needed structure and accountability to the various scattered youth employment initiatives,” he stated.