STAKEHOLDERS in Kabwe District of Central Province have welcomed the return of the Zambia National Service (ZNS) Training for the young people, describing it as a transformative opportunity for the country’s young population.
Manyonga Siansimbi, a beneficiary of the programme in 1976, has praised the move and said it was long overdue.
ZANIS reports that Mr Siansimbi credited the mandatory ZNS training programme then for teaching him discipline, time management, and hard work as well as skills that he said have seen him thrive throughout his life.
President Hakainde Hichilema revealed during a meeting with United Party for National Development (UPND) members from Lusaka District’s seven constituencies on Wednesday that cabinet has approved the reinstatement of the programme.
The programme was initially implemented by the United National Independence Party (UNIP) from 1975 to 1980 and was mandatory for all school leavers.
The President said the revamped initiative will be voluntary, starting with an initial 1,000 youths, and committed to personally sponsor 156 participants that will be drawn from all the constituencies across the country.
“It’s a good way to reduce crime and preoccupy youths. This will curtail smoking, drinking, and drug abuse, while also making the youths productive.
“It will also decongest urban areas where many have turned into junkies while food production will increase which will lead to food security of the nation. Even after retirement, I’m thriving as a farmer thanks to what I learned during my training,” President Hichilema said.
And Climate Change and Smart Agriculture Expert, Oliver Bulaya, has echoed similar sentiments emphasising the need for a modernised approach to the programme.
“This is a great move to drive skills development and self-sufficiency among youths. The training should focus on smart agriculture, including bee-keeping, livestock, and fisheries. It must equip youths to be entrepreneurial and self-reliant, not employment-oriented,” Dr Bulaya said.
Meanwhile, 25-year-old Mordecai Ndililwa, and former president of Kabwe Institute of Technology said the programme has potential to address unemployment and societal challenges.
“Youths lack skills, employment, and opportunities. This initiative will enhance their livelihoods and prepare them for service life and productivity. It will also help mitigate challenges like drug abuse, crime, and other delinquent vices,” he said.
Ndililwa has challenged the youths across the country to take advantage of the opportunity.
