Story by Courage Bushe
A total of 185 young people recovering from drug and substance abuse have graduated from the Youth Service in Zimbabwe training programme at Dadaya Training Centre, marking a milestone in efforts to combine rehabilitation with skills development.
The initiative, facilitated by the Angel of Hope Foundation in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, is designed to support recovery through structured training, discipline and vocational empowerment.
Participants underwent practical and technical instruction aimed at enhancing employability, entrepreneurship and long-term self-reliance. Organisers say the programme seeks not only to address substance abuse, but also to tackle underlying socio-economic vulnerabilities.
Graduates described the training as a turning point.
“We remain grateful to the authorities for providing start-up kits, training and mentorship. This collaboration demonstrates that empowering young people with practical skills is one of the strongest antidotes to poverty, drug abuse and social vulnerability,” said one graduate.
“The programme instils a sense of civic duty and responsibility, while providing a practical platform to acquire valuable non-formal skills,” another added.
“We are grateful for the training we have received because it will help transform our livelihoods. We pledge to play our part in advancing the economic goals of our nation,” said another beneficiary.
Government has reiterated its commitment to placing young people at the centre of the national development agenda.
Zimbabwe Youth Council Chief Executive Officer, Mr Brian Nyagwande, said the focus goes beyond training to ensuring meaningful integration into the economy.
“As Government, we are not only training young people, but also ensuring they are absorbed into meaningful roles. Concrete measures are underway to integrate Youth Service graduates into the public sector, including the security sector, where discipline, patriotism and service are paramount. This commitment ensures that your skills and dedication will directly contribute to safeguarding and advancing our nation,” he said.
Outstanding students were awarded certificates and business start-up kits during the graduation ceremony.
The programme forms part of broader national efforts to combat drug and substance abuse while equipping young people with the tools necessary to contribute productively to Zimbabwe’s socio-economic development.
