Luapula Province Minister, Nason Musonda, says the National Youth Scheme has empowered 929 youths in the province with grants for income generating projects since its launch in January, 2022.
Speaking during the National Youth Day celebration held at Kaole Stadium in Mansa District today, Engineer Musonda noted that the government will continue to empower youths through various initiatives.
He stated that through trade schools and skills training centres, many youths have been trained in the province.
“Additionally, our Youth Skills Development Programmes at Samfya and Chisangwa Youth Resource Centres have trained 298 youths in 2024 alone. These centres offer courses in Food Production, Computer studies, Carpentry, Tailoring, Agriculture and Entrepreneurship,” he said.
Eng Musonda urged the young people to take advantage of the various opportunities that the government is providing to equip themselves with the skills needed to thrive in today’s economy.
He also noted that in 2024, about 29,784 youths, including 506 persons living with disabilities, through the Constituency Development Funds (CDF), were empowered by the government.
“In 2024, about 19,631 young people in Luapula Province received grants, 4,116 were awarded skills development bursaries, 2,144 accessed loans and 3,893 received Secondary School Boarding bursaries,” he stated.
Luapula Province Permanent Secretary, Prudence Chinama, noted that the youths in the country have been allowed to amplify their voices and be innovative to drive the economic agenda of government.
Ms Chinama pointed out that the government has many initiatives that the youths should take advantage of by being productive.
Meanwhile, a youth Representative, Wongani Kaira, commended the government for promoting and implementing the free education policy.
“This initiative has been a game-changer for many young people, providing them with access to quality education and unlocking their potential,” said Mr Kaira.
He also applauded the government for its commitment to empowering the young people through education and skills development.
“Skills development is important because it promotes economic growth and social development by creating a more skilled and diverse workforce,” Mr Kaira indicated.
