The perceptions of National Youth Service participants on the programme’s impact in job creation in Namibia: A case of Windhoek youth
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Date
2025
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Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
This qualitative study examined the perceptions of participating Youth aged 16-35 on the
impact of National Youth Service (NYS) programs on job creation in Namibia. The NYS
initiative aims to equip young Namibians with skills and experiences that enhance their
employability and entrepreneurial potential. The study is driven by the gap in literature which
shows that despite a decade’s worth of studies focused on youth, there was a significant deficit
in involving them in a participatory manner in order to obtain their views and feelings
qualitatively. A qualitative research design was utilized to collect data through an interview
guide. Fifteen youth who completed the NYS two-year skills program, participated in semistructured, audio-recorded interviews. To interpret the data, the researcher applied inductive,
thematic data analysis to transcribe and code data to extract themes. Findings revealed that
while most participants recognized the NYS programme’s positive impact on their professional
and personal growth, and valued the opportunity to acquire new skills, there were significant
challenges in job opportunities. The alignment of the NYS curriculum with market demands
was considered adequate; however, the involvement of stakeholders, particularly the private
sector, was deemed crucial for the success and improvement of NYS programs. Participants
acknowledged that the programs of NYS has evolved over time, enhancing its effectiveness
and participant satisfaction. The study concludes with recommendations to optimize the value
of the NYS programme’s in fostering sustainable employment for Namibian youth. These
include the need for stronger industry linkages, improved mentorship, and continuous
monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. This study contributes to the broader discourse on
youth employment strategies in developing countries and underscores the importance of
tailored interventions in addressing youth unemployment
Description
A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Arts in Social Work
Keywords
Youth, Unemployment, Youth unemployment in Namibia, National Youth Service (NYS) Programme, Employment creation, Job market needs, Vocational skills development, Entrepreneurship, Poverty alleviation, Youth perceptions, Human capital theory, Structural functionalism theory, Qualitative research, Thematic analysis, Stakeholder involvement, Namibia, University of Namibia