Henties bay: The National Youth Service (NYS) has seen a record-breaking number of over 11,600 applications for its 16th intake of the National Youth Training Programme, marking the highest interest level since the programme's inception. However, only 1,068 applicants were successfully recruited due to limited resources.
According to Namibia Press Agency, 700 recruits, consisting of an equal number of males and females, have commenced their training at the Henties Bay Training Centre in the Erongo Region, while another 368 are undergoing training at the Rietfontein Centre. During the programme's opening on Monday, Vice President Lucia Witbooi emphasized the youth's eagerness to engage in national development and personal growth.
Vice President Witbooi announced that N.dollars 257 million has been allocated for the establishment of a National Youth Fund in the 2025/26 financial year. This fund aims to enhance youth-led entrepreneurship, support start-ups, and expand graduate internship programmes. She highlighted the importance of the NYS graduates, particularly those completing the skills training programme, in taking advantage of these opportunities.
Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, Dino Ballotti, echoed the vice president's views but pointed out the financial constraints limiting a broader intake. He mentioned ongoing efforts to secure additional funding to fully utilize training centres and expand access to all eligible youth.
Erongo Governor Natalia /Goagoses praised the programme, noting that hosting the NYS intake in her region underscores its strategic importance and provides direct socio-economic benefits to the local economy. She reiterated her office's support for youth empowerment initiatives, stressing the role of programmes like NYS in tackling youth unemployment and fostering civic responsibility.
The NYS offers three structured programmes: National Service Training, Voluntary Service, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). The training period has been extended from six to seven months to include a mandatory month of voluntary service to enhance civic engagement. The programme aims to equip youth with practical skills, discipline, and national values that encourage patriotism and civic responsibility.