Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date: 4th January, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The Zambia National Service (ZNS) has announced plans to create and maintain an employment database for volunteer school-leaving youths who will undergo training through its programs.
This initiative is aimed at cultivating a pool of disciplined, skilled individuals who may be prioritized for recruitment into various Defence and Security Wings in the future.
Speaking in a recent interview, ZNS Commander Lieutenant General Engineer Maliti Solochi II revealed that participants in the reintroduced program will contribute a nominal fee to support its implementation.
He lauded Republican President and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Force, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, for his commitment to youth empowerment, including the sponsorship of 156 youths—one from each constituency in Zambia—once the program commenced.
“The trained youths will serve as a priority reservoir for employment opportunities in the Zambia Army, Zambia Air Force, Zambia Police, Zambia Correctional Service and other quasi-government institutions,” Lt. Gen. Solochi explained.
He emphasized that the program is inclusive, welcoming all youths regardless of academic qualifications. “As long as one is a youth, they qualify for training. This initiative is transformative, equipping participants with lifelong skills and fostering a positive mindset,” he said.
The ZNS Commander also called on well-meaning Zambians to sponsor young participants, highlighting the program’s dual focus on empowering youths and addressing unemployment.
By prioritizing trained volunteers for key roles, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between skills development and job creation.
Lt. Gen. Solochi noted that this approach aligns with international best practices, where similar programs prepare young people for national service and future career opportunities.
The Agency
