Story by Providence Maraneli
THE National Youth Service has been commended for promoting unity, hard work, discipline and patriotism among young people.
This was highlighted at the National Youth Service graduation ceremony held this Friday at Guyu Training Centre in Gwanda, where more than 500 youths completed their training.
After three months of intensive training followed by three months of community service, the youths, drawn from the country’s 10 provinces, demonstrated the skills and values they acquired through the programme.
“I now have a skill, and I am going to establish my own business after receiving training under this programme,” said one of the graduates.
The six-month programme has also contributed to the fight against drug and substance abuse, as participants were strictly prohibited from using any harmful substances during training.
The Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Honourable Omphile Marupi, said the initiative is designed to safeguard the youth from social vices while shaping responsible future leaders.
“This programme is aimed at helping the youth in the fight against drug and substance abuse as we build a respectful generation capable of becoming future leaders,” he said.
Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Honourable Tino Machakaire, noted that the graduates are now equipped to contribute towards national development.
“These youths have learnt the values of patriotism, discipline, voluntarism and resilience. They are now prepared to contribute to the achievement of Vision 2030,” he said.
Representing Vice President Colonel (Rtd) Dr Kembo Mohadi, the Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe, praised the growing support for the programme.
“I am pleased to note that 533 young men and women drawn from all ten provinces have completed this rigorous and inspiring programme. This reinforces our shared national vision of unity, patriotism and empowerment, and embodies the ‘leaving no one and no place behind’ mantra,” he said.
The graduates completed service attachments at various Vocational Training Centres across the country, showcasing practical skills and community involvement as part of their Youth Service in Zimbabwe programme.
