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Tadious Manyepo in ZVISHAVANE
Over 50 drug addicts have successfully rehabilitated while 16 others have secured employment after completing the rebranded Youth Service in Zimbabwe (YSZ) training at Dadaya Training Centre in Zvishavane.
This marks the first graduation of the revitalised programme, with 831 trainees graduating yesterday.
Previously known as the National Youth Service until its discontinuation in 2019, the refreshed YSZ was launched by President Mnangagwa on May 24 in Murehwa.
Grounded in principles of discipline and youth development, the programme is making significant strides in combating vice and enhancing productivity.
At a colourful pass-out parade yesterday, Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister, Tinoda Machakaire, praised the programme for its vital role in fostering focused youths.
“With the current scourge of drug and substance abuse in Zimbabwe, the YSZ training will significantly help educate young people about the consequences of substance abuse.
“I am informed that virtually all Dadaya trainees who were abusing drugs before enrolling have fully recovered,” said Minister Machakaire.
He noted that this intake organised a careers day, leading to several trainees being absorbed by various Government departments including the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Zimbabwe National Army, Zvishavane Town Council, Zimpapers (1980) Limited and the Public Service Commission.
This aligns with the Cabinet directive prioritising holders of the YSZ certificate for admission into State and higher education institutions, as well as for appointments in the public service and State enterprises.
Minister Machakaire emphasised the Government’s commitment to establishing YSZ training centres nationwide, with only Dadaya and Vumba having recruits this year.
Presently, there are three training centres in Manicaland, Midlands and Matabeleland South, with plans to expand into the remaining seven provinces. The existing centres are undergoing refurbishment, and land has been secured for new locations to train more youths in the next five years.
To boost enrolment, the Ministry plans to conduct training at two additional centres next year: Guyu Training Centre in Gwanda, Matabeleland South, and Igava Training Centre in Marondera.
Dadaya Training Centre head Mr Handsen Kadzuraimire expressed confidence in the industrial capabilities of the 831 youths.
“They underwent various skills training, including entrepreneurial skills, and I am pleased to have overseen the rehabilitation of those who had become addicted to drugs.
“Youth Service in Zimbabwe is a crucial component of development, and we are proud to be part of it,” he said.
The YSZ programme not only instils discipline but also plays a significant role in developing patriotic, responsible and resilient youths equipped with relevant skills for meaningful participation in nation-building.
Many countries around the world including the United States, Nigeria and Namibia, have similar programmes but bearing different names.
Online Reporter
