President Hakainde Hichilema has announced the reintroduction of the National Service training program for school leavers, a move aimed at empowering Zambian youth with skills, discipline, and patriotism. This initiative, which had been phased out in earlier years, is set to resume in 2024 and will focus on bridging the gap between education and employment while fostering national unity.
Speaking at the UPND Party Secretariat in Lusaka, President Hichilema emphasized the program’s transformative potential. “This decision is driven by the desire to empower our youth, provide them with practical skills, and instill a sense of patriotism and national pride,” he said.
Objectives of the National Service Program
The revamped program will be voluntary and open to all school leavers, regardless of their academic backgrounds. It aims to equip young people with both hard and soft skills through training in agriculture, construction, healthcare, and technical fields. Participants will also engage in community service projects that directly benefit local communities.
“One of the key benefits of this initiative is its potential to reduce unemployment by creating a skilled workforce ready to contribute to Zambia’s growing economy,” President Hichilema noted. He added that the program will foster teamwork, discipline, and social responsibility, shaping a generation of committed and patriotic citizens.
Addressing Youth Unemployment
With Zambia’s youth comprising a significant portion of the population, the program seeks to address high unemployment rates by preparing young people for meaningful employment. By offering structured training, it will not only enhance their professional prospects but also empower them to contribute to the nation’s economic development.
Inclusive and Accessible
President Hichilema stressed that the program will be inclusive, ensuring all eligible young people have access to this opportunity. “This is an opportunity for our youth to give back to the nation while also gaining valuable skills that will serve them throughout their lives,” he said.
Long-Term Vision
The National Service training program aligns with the government’s broader strategy to invest in youth empowerment and national development. By reducing dependency on traditional job markets and promoting skill-based work, the program is expected to create a stronger, more self-reliant workforce.
President Hichilema reiterated that the initiative reflects the UPND’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises, fostering unity, and driving Zambia toward prosperity. As preparations for the 2024 launch get underway, the President called on stakeholders to support this initiative, which he believes will have a lasting impact on the nation’s future.
This bold move signals a renewed focus on equipping Zambia’s youth with the tools to succeed while strengthening the country’s socio-economic fabric.
