Story by Tafara Chikumira
Empowerment of young people with life skills is on course after more than 800 youths graduated at the Kaguvi Vocational Training Centre in Gweru this Friday.
The graduation ceremony confirms the Second Republic’s thrust of ensuring youths are empowered to contribute to the country’s development in line with the inclusive development agenda.
The skills gained saw some of the graduates establishing business ventures, while others are using the knowledge gained as a stepping stone to launch their careers.
“I am very excited today for finalising my studies. As someone who was doing agriculture, I want to take the knowledge I gained here to start a piggery business as well as start some horticultural activities. I will play my part for the country to achieve food self-sustenance,” said a graduate.
“I was doing machining at this institution. I have teamed up with colleagues to start a small workshop where we are also anticipating to employ other youths. We have gained a lot through our academic journey at this institution,” added another.
Government views vocational training institutions as a catalyst to national development.
The Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Honourable Tino Machakaire said, “Vocational training centres act as the government’s conduits for rural industrialisation and economic development. Let me take this opportunity to emphasise the importance of digital technology and climate skills development. Our VTCs should be equipped to provide training in these areas, which are critical for our country’s future. The ministry is currently going through a process to implement the Strategic Framework for the Transformation of the Vocational Training System. The strategy entails improving infrastructure, retooling, staff capacity development, curriculum review and productivity for more effective training.”
“Allow me to underscore my profound appreciation towards implementation of the Second Republic’s Education 5.0 framework by our Vocational Training Centres as they have expanded the scope of their curriculum to encompass production of goods and services, research, technology and innovation. The Midlands province is a proud beneficiary of Education 5.0 as our training institutions have established industrial parks and innovation hubs that developed tangible products and services that include clothing factories, mining and agricultural equipment,” said Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Owen Ncube.
The Midlands province has six vocational training institutions, with plans at an advanced stage to establish others in Sherwood bloc and Mataga Growth Point.
