Story by Josephine Mugiyo, Diplomatic Correspondent
CONSTRUCTION of the Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo National Youth Service and Vocational Training Centre in Kezi is gathering momentum, with phase one now 70 percent complete and on course for completion by September, bringing the landmark skills development project closer to reality.
The centre, located in the Nyongolo area of Tshipisani, is being constructed in honour of the late Vice President, Dr Joshua Mqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo, and is expected to expand vocational training opportunities for young people.
Construction began earlier this year, with work progressing steadily.
Speaking to ZBC, one of the engineers overseeing the project, Mr Courage Phiri, outlined the scope of the first phase.
“We are working on phase one, which entails a boundary wall, fence and guard house, two blocks, A and B. We started at the end of February; overall progress is at 70 percent and we are hoping to finish even before then.”
At any given time, the project employs plus or minus 80 people.
“The opportunity that I am getting has helped me. I wish it would continue. We are working close to home, and I am happy that development has reached our home,” one of the construction workers, Meclinah Moyo said.
“This project has brought us opportunities. We are hopeful that even after it is completed, we will still come back and work or be enrolled at the VTC,” another construction worker, Nontokozo Sibanda stated.
The community is excited about having such a key project in their area. Once the vocational training centre is completed, endless possibilities will be created for school leavers to further their education.
