DODOMA: THOUSANDS of Form Six graduates selected for compulsory National Service (JKT) training are yet to report to camps across the country, prompting authorities to grant a final four-day extension until June 15.
The extension, approved by JKT Chief Major General Rajabu Mabele, allows eligible graduates who missed the initial reporting period to join the programme between June 12 and June 15.
Speaking to journalists at the JKT Headquarters in Chamwino, Dodoma on Friday, the Head of Operations and Training Branch, Brigadier General Peter Mnyani, said the extension was intended to accommodate youths who failed to report due to various family and personal circumstances.
“Major General Rajabu Mabele has given an opportunity to youths who faced different challenges to report at JKT camps nearest to their areas of residence from today until June 15. We urge them to utilise this opportunity without fail,” Brig Gen Mnyani said.
Under the arrangement, graduates may report to any JKT camp closest to their place of residence, regardless of their original allocation.
However, the flexibility does not apply to Ruvu Camp, Makutupora Camp and the JKT Leadership College (CUJKT) in Kimbiji.
Brig Gen Mnyani said JKT has continued receiving recruits at camps nationwide, including some who reported to camps other than those initially assigned to them.
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Earlier, JKT announced 60,000 training slots for Form Six graduates who completed their studies this year and were required to report to designated camps between June 1 and June 7 in accordance with the National Service Act.
The training programme seeks to instil patriotism, discipline, self-reliance and practical skills among young people, equipping them to contribute effectively to national development.
Brig Gen Mnyani said training activities had already commenced in various camps and urged those who had not yet reported to take advantage of what he described as the final opportunity to join the current intake.
He also called on parents and guardians to support eligible youths to report before the deadline expires.