Story by Tichaona Kurewa
NEARLY 200 young people from Matabeleland North Province have graduated after completing entrepreneurship and vocational skills training under the Christian Youth Towards Vision 2030 programme.
The graduates received training in practical trades including detergent making, beauty therapy and hairdressing, welding, carpentry, baking, poultry production, and clothing and textile production, equipping them with skills for self-employment and enterprise development.
Participants said the programme had opened new economic opportunities and given them confidence to build sustainable livelihoods.
“Before this programme, I depended on my family for almost everything. I now have the confidence and practical skills to start my own beauty salon and earn an income,” said one graduate.
Another participant said the training had equipped her with practical and accessible business skills.
“The skills we have acquired are practical and affordable to implement. I am looking forward to producing quality detergents and creating employment for other young women,” she said.
Christian Youth Towards Vision 2030 Director, Mr Chaplain Munyaradzi Chirume said the initiative is designed to develop young entrepreneurs capable of creating employment and contributing to national economic growth.
“Our vision is to equip young people with practical income-generating skills that enable them to become job creators rather than job seekers. By empowering them in trades such as welding, carpentry, beauty therapy, baking and poultry production, we are directly contributing to the attainment of Vision 2030 through entrepreneurship, economic growth and community development,” he said.
National Advisor for Christian Youth Towards Vision 2030, Bishop Sihlesenkosi Mhlanga said skills development also helps address social challenges affecting young people.
“When young people are meaningfully engaged and earning a living, they are far less likely to fall victim to drug and substance abuse. Skills development gives them purpose, hope and a pathway to a productive future,” he said.
Guest of honour, ZANU PF Lupane District Chairperson Cde Permanent Sibanda, said the programme demonstrates the value of partnerships in empowering young people and strengthening local economies.
“This programme is a shining example of how communities, churches and development partners can work together to empower our young people. The graduates have acquired practical skills that can transform their lives, strengthen household incomes and create employment opportunities for others,” he said.
The graduation marks another step in efforts to equip young people with practical entrepreneurial skills to promote self-employment, community development and the attainment of Vision 2030.
