By The Respondent Reporter
Member of Parliament for Biharamulo West.Engineer Ezra Chiwelesa calls for Natonal Service, popularly known as JKT in Swahili, and other security organs, to make a review on recruitment criteria , so that it gives priority to youths with scout straining as they are well prepared in discipline and leadership qualities.
The call was made on Sunday 22 February at the closing ceremony of the Kagera Region Scout Camp for three days in Katahoka Ward, Biharamulo District, the event which drew young scout, commissioners, group guardians and educators across the region as well as district senior officials such as the Officer Commanding District (OCD) and the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) Commander.
"Scouting builds strength, patriotism, and tenacity from primary school onward," Chiwelesa told the gathering. "Not everyone gets a chance at Natuonal Service, but these scouts have solid training right here – more enduring than many realize.
Our military is evolving with technology; from 1980s gear to today's sophisticated systems. Scouts are prepared for that future."He highlighted how scouting instills discipline and leadership, qualities that mirror military demands.
"Leaders like our OCD and PCCB commander have endured rigorous training to reach their positions. You young scouts are being molded the same way," he said.
"JKT can't accommodate everyone, so we must consider alternatives: four-plus years of scouting experience counts as vast preparation in tenacity, protection, and patriotism."he added
Chiwelesa, who pledged to advise the government on policy changes, stressed balancing scout activities with academics. "Study hard in class – it lifts you up. We don't want scouts complaining tomorrow while peers advance," he added.
Recognizing scouting could motivate more youths to join, boosting enlistment overall.The MP's call underscores scouting's untapped value in Tanzania's defense pipeline, potentially opening doors for thousands sidelined by National Service limits.