Interview: Concerns Raised Over National Youth Service Selection Process

 

Social justice activist Shaun Gariseb has called for urgent scrutiny of the National Youth Service (NYS) intake process amid allegations of manipulation and lack of transparency. According to Gariseb, several constituencies, including Katutura East and Central, have expressed concerns that the NYS has sidelined local constituency councillors from the selection of youth candidates, leading to questionable lists of successful applicants.

Gariseb pointed out that many names on the lists posted on the National Youth Service website do not belong to residents of the respective constituencies. “We contacted several constituency offices, including the mayors of Kamanyapa and Khorixas, who confirmed that many selected individuals do not live in those areas,” Gariseb explained. This situation, he argues, undermines the integrity of the process and denies local youth their rightful opportunities.

The activist also criticized the brief application window—only three days—as insufficient for a transparent and inclusive process. He emphasized that the National Youth Service is a critical platform, serving as a gateway to careers in the Namibian police, defence force, and correctional services. Excluding or misinforming youth during this process could have serious consequences for their future employment prospects.

Gariseb has called on the NYS commissioner to clarify how candidates are selected and verified, demanding a written response. If no satisfactory reply is received, he intends to escalate the matter to the Prime Minister and the President’s office to ensure accountability.

To restore trust and fairness, Gariseb suggests opening the application process earlier—from January to May—allowing sufficient time for proper verification and community involvement. He also urges an independent investigation into allegations that family ties and tribal affiliations may be influencing selections.

“This matter is about justice for our youth,” Gariseb said. “We won’t leave it unresolved.”