Lusaka, 11th December 2025
Youth, Sport and Arts Minister Honourable Elvis C. Nkandu, MP, has commended the International Youth Fellowship (IYF) volunteer students for their outstanding contribution to youth development and mindset transformation in Zambia.
Speaking at the presentation of certificates to the volunteers today, Hon. Nkandu thanked the team for dedicating their time and expertise to support the country’s development efforts.
The volunteers, who came from South Korea, Thailand, and Kazakhstan, spent the past year delivering various mindset transformation and skills development programmes across Zambian communities. Their work included youth camps, symposiums, free skills academy training, and mindset change awareness campaigns.
The practical skills programmes they offered included bricklaying, electrical training, cosmetology, and others. These initiatives have equipped beneficiaries with hands-on abilities, enabling some to start their own small businesses and improve their livelihoods.
“There are very few people who choose to volunteer, and the fact that you came all the way to serve in Zambia sends a positive message,” he said. “The skills and knowledge you have transferred will continue to make a real difference in the lives of our people.”
The Minister emphasised that mindset change remains a vital pillar for national progress, adding that empowering young people with a positive, proactive outlook contributes significantly to their success.
Mr. Wamunyima Emmanuel, the IYF Secretary General, expressed gratitude to the Ministry for its continued support. He revealed that more than 1,000 Zambians had benefited from the training programmes delivered by the volunteers. He added that the tutors worked exceptionally well with both young and elderly participants, following overwhelming interest from communities.
The volunteer students are scheduled to return to their home countries before the end of December 2025.
