Story by Peter Chivhima
MABVUKU- A youth empowerment initiative has benefitted over 200 youths who graduated with certificates in various disciplines at the Pedzisai Sakupwanya Skills Development Trust in Mabvuku this Friday.
The skills training programme, aligned with the Second Republic’s development mantra of leaving no one and no place behind, is spearheaded by ZANU PF Mabvuku-Tafara legislator, Cde Pedzisai Sakupwanya, in support of the broader government agenda for youth empowerment.
The newly graduated youths received training in a range of trades, including motor mechanics, cosmetology, solar installation, carpentry, plumbing, and nurse aide training, equipping them with practical skills to either join the formal workforce or launch their own enterprises.
Among the proud graduates was Melissa Chiyangwa, who expressed appreciation for the life-changing opportunity.
“I am so excited that today I am part of the people who are graduating. With the skills I have learnt, it means I am now someone who can do her things,” she said.
Mr Munyaradzi Usavi, who trained in Diesel and Plant Fitting, highlighted how the programme has positively impacted his focus and discipline.
“This means that I will now spend most of my time doing my work as compared to before, when I used to spend time roaming around. It also reduces cases of drug and substance abuse,” he said.
Mr Simon Jengwa, Head of the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training in Harare Metropolitan Province, commended the initiative.
“This means that we have empowered these youths, so we want to thank the Second Republic under President Emmerson Mnangagwa for empowering youths. So if they are empowered, it means they are now self-reliant, a development which will drive them away from committing crimes,” he said.
Director of the Pedzisai Sakupwanya Skills Development Trust, Apostle Tendai Meda, emphasised the long-term benefits of community-based training.
“In terms of youth empowerment from the grassroots, it equips them with employable skills, promotes self-reliance and entrepreneurship, reduces poverty and crime, builds confidence and a sense of purpose, and creates a skilled workforce that can drive local economic development,” he said.
The programme reflects the Government’s Vision 2030 goal of creating an empowered upper-middle-income society, with young people at the forefront of national transformation.
