Africa-Press – Gambia. The National Youth Service Scheme (NYSS) Saturday recruited 150 corps members which formed the 3rd batch of its Apprenticeship Training Program (ATP).
Delivering the welcoming statement on behalf of the NYSS Board Members, Aji Sainabou Jallow, expressed delight in witnessing another cohort take their first step into national service. She advised them to make the best use of the programme.
Mr. Mustapha Badjie, the Deputy Executive Director of NYSS, gave an overview of the institution, its mission, and the critical role it played in shaping the future of Gambian youth through skill development and national service.
Guest speaker, Ms. Isatou Drammeh, shared her inspiring journey from an NYSS apprentice to becoming the only female mechanic at the Gambia Ports Authority and later working with UNICEF. Her story served as a powerful reminder that with determination and hard work, the corps members can exceed expectations.
For her part, the UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Mandisa Mashologu, emphasized UNDP’s unwavering support to youth development in The Gambia. “This is not just a training it is a transformation,” she said. She reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to inclusive, equitable, and sustainable development, stating that the Apprenticeship Training Program (ATP) is a living example of the vision. “We need to invest in our youth and co-create with them, their space to realize their potential and create their own opportunities. Together, we can build a conducive environment help young men and women to acquire the right mind set and skills.” Madam Mandisa remarked.
The ceremony concluded with an inspiring address by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Bakary Badjie who reminded the corps members of government’s commitment to youth empowerment. He encouraged them not to disappoint, stating that “so much hope is placed on your shoulders go and represent the future of this country,” he said.
Hon. Badjie emphasised the programme’s role in addressing youth unemployment, urging the recruits who have already completed a month of intensive training to “make the best use of the programme.”
The 150 corps members were drawn from across all the administrative regions of the country and they will undergo for two (2) years Apprenticeship Skills Acquisition Training Programme. The selection and recruitment programme is supported and funded by UNDP and government of The Gambia through the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
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