Rietfontein, December 12 — President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has reiterated that the strength and future of any nation depends on its youth, describing young people as the ultimate fallback strategy of every country. She made these remarks during the 16th Intake National Service Training Pass Out Parade held at Rietfontein in the Otjozondjupa Region.
As Head of the National Service, the President paid tribute to the visionary leadership of Namibia’s Founding President, His Excellency Dr. Sam Nujoma, who established the National Youth Service (NYS) in the early years of independence. She noted that Dr. Nujoma’s recognition of the importance of a disciplined, patriotic youth remains as relevant today as it was at the birth of the nation.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah called on all Government institutions, including Regional Councils and State-Owned Enterprises, to open voluntary service opportunities for NYS graduates starting from February 2026. She emphasised that Work-Integrated Learning is a national obligation rather than a favour and urged host institutions to make adequate budgetary provisions for the upkeep allowances of participating graduates.
She further revealed that Government is considering a proposal to require all new government employees to undergo a one-month National Youth Service orientation during their probation period. The initiative aims to strengthen a public service culture grounded in discipline, integrity, professionalism and excellence.
Addressing the graduates directly, the President encouraged them to pursue entrepreneurship and to take advantage of the National Youth Development Fund, stressing that their skills and energy are vital to Namibia’s development agenda.
The President also expressed appreciation to the Government of the Republic of Zambia for its support to the training programme and disclosed that discussions are underway with the United Republic of Tanzania to establish a similar cooperation arrangement. She commended the NYS Board for its leadership in steering the programme and thanked the families of the graduates for their continued support.
In her conclusion President Nandi-Ndaitwah congratulated the graduates of the 16th Intake for making the Land of the Brave proud through their courage, discipline and commitment, urging them to serve as sterling examples wherever they go. In her capacity as the official Patron of Road Safety, she also appealed to all Namibians to exercise caution and prioritise road safety during the festive season.
