President Nandi-Ndaitwah limits NDF, police recruitment to National Youth Service graduates

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has announced that all future recruitments in the Namibian Defence Force, the police and the correctional service will be limited to National Youth Service (NYS) graduates.

She made the announcement at the 16th NYS pass-out parade at Rietfontein in the Otjozondjupa region.

She says the decision aims to ensure a more coherent and disciplined security sector.

“The Cabinet has directed that all government institutions must prioritise NYS graduates for entry-level appointments,” she says.

More than 600 graduates will immediately join the defence force, while 430 will be considered by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security in its next intake.

Nandi-Ndaitwah adds that the government is studying a proposal for all new government employees to undergo a one-month NYS orientation during probation.

This move, she says, will help cultivate a public service culture rooted in integrity, professionalism and excellence.

“Namibia needs public servants who see their work not merely as employment but as a calling,” Nandi-Ndaitwah says.

She urges government institutions, including state-owned enterprises, the private sector and individuals to consider NYS graduates during their recruitment periods.

“You are unlikely to regret your actions if you take them into your operations,” she says.

The pass-out parade brought together 1 030 recruits from Henties Bay and Rietfontein’s NYS.

More than 11 000 young Namibians applied for the 16th intake, reflecting a generation eager to serve, grow and build a better Namibia for all, the president says.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.