By Dalcy Lulua
THE Central Provincial Government has signed a K2.5 million Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the National Volunteer Service (NVS).
Through this partnership, skilled volunteers will be sent to 16 Local Level Governments (LLGs) across Central Province, helping in areas like health, education, agriculture, and community development for the next two years, starting mid-2025.
Notable distinguished guests present during the signing ceremony were Central Governor Rufina Peter, Minister for Defence and Minister responsible for NVS Hon. Dr. Billy Joseph, NVS Council Chairman Mr. David Wassink, NVS Acting Executive Director Mr. Jerry David and senior management team of NVS and Central Provincial Government.
Governor Peter said, “NVS plays an important role where government services and volunteers continue the work, which is why this partnership is so important”.
She stated that the MoA is a significant step forward for the Provincial Government to empower its people through economic empowerment and self-reliance.
The partnership component of the MoA will be headed by the Central Provincial Government (60%) and NVS (40%).
Minister for Defence and Minister responsible for NVS Hon. Dr. Billy M. Joseph said NVS is the sleeping giant of service delivery to the rural areas and this partnership will surely benefit the people of Central Province.
He urged volunteers to sacrifice and make it their commitment to serve people even without getting paid as the name “volunteer” says it.
NVS Chairman Mr. David Wissink added, “This MoA strengthens our work in agriculture, education, health, and community development with the support of dedicated volunteers. It’s more than just an agreement; it’s a foundation for a successful partnership”.