Kamwanyah, Ndumba J.Karukua, Marliza2026-06-162026-06-162025http://hdl.handle.net/11070/4250A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Arts in Social WorkThis 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 unemploymentenYouthUnemploymentYouth unemployment in NamibiaNational Youth Service (NYS) ProgrammeEmployment creationJob market needsVocational skills developmentEntrepreneurshipPoverty alleviationYouth perceptionsHuman capital theoryStructural functionalism theoryQualitative researchThematic analysisStakeholder involvementNamibiaUniversity of NamibiaThesis