The opposition MDC-T has strongly objected to plans by the government to introduce compulsory National Youth Service in the schools curriculum.
President Robert Mugabe revealed the plans Saturday, saying the program is necessary to instill national pride in young people as well as equipping them with vocational skills.
At “O” Level, Mr. Mugabe said, every student must have already gone through the training.
Previously, the controversial program has been administered on a voluntary basis.
Human rights advocates have accused its graduates - known derisively as Green Bombers - of perpetrating violence against opposition supporters.
MDC-T spokesman Obert Gutu charged Zanu PF’s intention is to brainwash the youths, vowing his party will do anything necessary to stop the program’s implementation.
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Interview With Obert Gutu
But Zanu PF official in England Nicholas Mangwana insisted there is nothing wrong with the program.
He said the opposition cannot stop the National Youth Service implementation because the party does not have the numbers in parliament.
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Interview With Nicholas Mangwana on National Service