Story by Tamuka Charakupa
THE Government has been commended for its efforts in empowering young people through the enhancement of vocational training centres, with youths in Magunje attesting to the positive impact of this initiative.
The establishment of the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development, and Vocational Training has proven instrumental in strengthening rural vocational centres, which now offer a broad range of essential life skills courses.
Magunje Vocational Training Centre, located in Hurungwe District, is a leading example of rural empowerment, with local youths praising the centre for its significant contribution to their personal development and future prospects.
“I am doing a solar and electrical installation course and I think this a critical skill given that the government is embarking on a rural electrification programme. This means we will be able to work within our communities,” a student said.
“As young girls, we are tempted to get married early or get involved in drug and substance abuse when we are just idle at home. We welcome this drive by our government where anyone with an interest in a course can do one,” another said.
The decentralisation of these cheap learning institutions has also reduced travelling costs.
“The facility is just a stone-throw away from our homes which means we have no transport, food and accommodation expenses. It was going to be difficult for our parents to send us to schools in other cities for example in Chinhoyi or Kadoma.”
Magunje Vocational Training Centre head, Mr Shadreck Kaugure said, the focus is on empowering capable students regardless of educational background.
“The government’s focus is to ensure that every capable young person has a life skill. In that regard, our enrollment does not discriminate because we consider passion. Above all, we have made agriculture a compulsory course so that every student knows how to produce food regardless of whatever course he or she is doing.”
Meanwhile, the government targets to establish at least one vocational training centre in each district across the country as part of efforts to drive youth empowerment.
