National Youth Service 'gives youth a sense of belonging': MDC-T

MDC-T has agreed to the re-introduction of the National Youth Service Programme, which the party once criticised as a "Zanu PF project to train militias" saying that it gives young people a sense of belonging.

MDC-T legislator, Deputy Minister of Youth Development, Indigenisation and Empowerment, Mr. Tongai Matutu urged all Zimbabweans to accept the National Youth Service programme.

Matutu said most youths will find the process of national youth service as one that will lead them to the best destinations in life.

The National Youth Service Programme had been stopped since 2009. The Minister of Youth Development, Indigenisation and Empowerment, Saviour Kasukuwere says the programme is set to be re-introduced following overwhelming calls from youths who felt the training is essential.

The National Youth Service was established in 2001 with the aim of transforming and empowering youths for nation building through life skills training and leadership development.

However, the MDC-T has been opposing the programme, labeling the trained youths Zanu PF militias.