Razzaz checks on progress in National Service programme 

AMMAN — Prime Minister Omar Razzaz on Wednesday checked on progress in the National Service programme, implemented by the Labour Ministry in cooperation with the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army.

The programme seeks to provide vocational to around 20,000 young males and females on various professions the local market needs, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

Razzaz, accompanied by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Lt. Gen. Mahmoud Freihat, observed a military training of the subscribers on discipline, national guidance and fitness which will last for one month as part of the programme's first phase, to be followed by a three-month vocational training on skills related to the industry, construction and tourism sectors, Petra said.      

Razzaz instructed the extension of the enrolment period for one week as of March 6, citing the programme's "good" turn out, Petra, reported.

The premier also checked on the Zarqa Vocational Training Centre for females. The centre provides females with training on beauty and sewing skills, according to Petra.

Razzaz said that the programme is an integral part of the government's plans to reduce unemployment and poverty rates, calling on the private sector "to keep an eye on the skillful graduates."

In January, Razzaz launched the National Service programme aiming at supporting the national economy and supplying the market with qualified young personnel, while aligning the outputs of Jordan’s education systems — vocational and technical — with the needs of the labour market.

The programme provides interns with a JD100 monthly allowance, a daily meal, medical insurance in cases of work-related injuries and covers transportation fees, as well as the costs of uniforms and the issuance of a professional licence by the Centre of Accreditation and Quality Control.

The 476-hour programme has two stages: One month of military training, to include fitness activities, morale guidance and values of discipline, and a three-month phase for practical and theoretical training in workshops and laboratories.

Overall, the programme is meant to equip trainees with a range of life skills, reinforced by courses on entrepreneurship and occupational health and safety.