Story by Tamuka Charakupa
GOVERNMENT has announced plans to construct new vocational training centres in Mhangura, Sanyati, and Kariba before 2028, as part of ongoing efforts to promote skills development among youths, particularly in hard-to-reach communities.
The initiative is expected to expand access to technical and vocational education, equipping young people with practical skills to support employment creation and local economic growth.
Meanwhile, more than 300 graduates from the eight vocational training centres in Mashonaland West Province have been conferred with national certificates in various trades, reflecting Government’s commitment to empowering youths through education and skills development.
“I was the best building studies student. I was awarded a starter pack, which I am going to use to start my own enterprise,” graduate, Tawedzerwa Shoko said.
“The auto-electric engineering field, which I studied for, is a high-demand skill. I hope to open my workshop as a way to motivate other girls that with passion, the sky is the limit,” a graduate, Memory Mandaba said.
“I am happy that the Minister is going to facilitate employment for me at the Ministry of Tourism. Above all, I am glad that the government introduced vocational training centres,” another graduate, Opportunity Chigodora said.
Traditional leaders, who graced the graduation ceremony, implored the youths to be disciplined and shun drug and substance abuse.
“As traditional leaders, we have witnessed how the Village Technical Centre (VTC) initiative has transformed our communities. It is empowering our young people with practical skills, from carpentry and tailoring to mechanics and agriculture, giving them opportunities to earn an honest living.
“When our youths are engaged in productive work, they move away from crime, drug abuse, and other social ills. This programme is restoring dignity, promoting self-reliance, and strengthening our local economy. I commend this effort, as it aligns with our vision of building peaceful, prosperous, and self-sustaining communities,” traditional leader, Senator Chief Ngezi said.
“Vision 2030 can only be attained if our youths are disciplined, work hard and desist from taking drugs,” traditional Leader, Headman Murombedzi said.
The Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Honourable Tino Machakaire, reaffirmed Government’s plan to decentralise skills training.
“In line with NDS2, as a ministry, we intend to establish a vocational training centre in each district. The plan is to drive and promote nationwide and grassroots skills development, particularly in hard-to-reach communities. While we are pushing for youth empowerment, we are calling the youths themselves to refrain from drug and substance abuse,” he said.
The government is implementing the National Youth Empowerment Strategy, which runs from 2026 to 2030.
