Andrew
Online Reporter
GOVERNMENT has re-introduced the National Youth Service (NYS) with 100 000 youths set to be incorporated into the programme in the next five years.
The NYS inculcates discipline, respect and tolerance among other virtues anchored by the philosophy of ‘Ubuntu’.
NYS had been temporarily suspended until the Second Republic moved in to comply with the Constitution and Zimbabwe Youth Council Act, which provide for the service.
Addressing Tuesday’s post-Cabinet briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said recruitment into the programme will be voluntary.
“The programme will be called “Youth Service in Zimbabwe,” and will closely coordinate with the Life Skills Orientation Programme offered by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.
She said there will be two intakes per year, with each training session lasting six months.
“The graduates of the National Youth programme will receive first priority into high institutions of learning including polytechnics, teaching, nursing, the army and employment in the civil service,” she said.
Four of the country’s provinces that have no NYS training centres will be allocated land.
“The allocated land will form the basis of the production units of the training centres.
“A total of six National Youth Training Centres will be refurbished, while a further 15 new training centres will be constructed during the five-year period.
“It is envisaged that a total of 100 000 youths will be trained,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.
Online Reporter