THE Ministry of Defence has received over K17 million to launch the Zambia National Service (ZNS) Voluntary Skills Training Programme, an initiative aimed at empowering youths across the country.
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The release of the funds by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development from the 2025 Constituency Development Funds (CDF), is meant to implement President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive to restart the ZNS Voluntary Skills Training which ended many decades ago.
Ministry of Defence (MoD) Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamaundu confirmed the release of the funds and outlined the programme’s initial phase.
He stated that the first cohort will include seven youths from each of Zambia’s 156 constituencies, ensuring broad national representation.
Applications for the programme are set to open in July 2025, with selections expected to be finalised by the end of the same month.
MHaamaundu emphasised that the ZNS Voluntary Skills Training Programme is designed to equip young people with entrepreneurial skills, enabling them to become self-reliant and create their own employment opportunities.
“President Hichilema wants this training to benefit the youths who need to create jobs for themselves,” Haamaundu said.
MoD principal public relations officer Paul Shalala underscores the programme’s focus on job creation and economic empowerment.
He stated that successful applicants will receive training at ZNS Skills Centers located in the Eastern, Copperbelt, and Northern Provinces.
Kalemba June 30, 2025
