Zambia Revives ZNS Voluntary Skills Training with K17M Boost
The Ministry of Defence has received over K17 million to relaunch the long-dormant Zambia National Service (ZNS) Voluntary Skills Training Programme, aimed at empowering young people with practical and entrepreneurial skills.
The funding comes in response to President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive to reinstate the programme, which had ceased operations several decades ago.
According to Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Mr. Maambo Haamaundu, the initial phase will see seven youths selected from each of the country’s 156 constituencies, bringing the first intake to over 1,000 participants.
Applications for the programme will open in July 2025, with selections expected by the end of the same month. Training will be conducted at ZNS Skills Centres located in the Eastern, Copperbelt, and Northern provinces.
“This programme is designed to equip young people with skills that promote entrepreneurship and self-reliance,” said Mr. Haamaundu. “President Hichilema is keen to see Zambian youths become job creators rather than job seekers.”
The revival of the ZNS Voluntary Skills Training Programme marks a strategic move to address youth unemployment and enhance national productivity through skills development.
