Story by Tichaona Kurewa
NGAMO Livestock Farm and Vocational Training College in Tsholotsho District, Matabeleland North, held its first graduation ceremony on Friday, marking a key step in the Government’s push for inclusive economic development.
More than 40 graduates received certificates in crop production, wildlife management, and other vocational disciplines, having completed a year-long intensive training programme. The college, commissioned last year under Chief Mathupula, operates with support from Children in the Wilderness, the charitable arm of Wilderness Safaris, and other development partners.
Graduates described the programme as transformative.
“We are grateful for the encouragement we received. All the skills we learnt here are for our benefit,” one graduate said.
“The training had its challenges, but we learnt a lot and it has opened a new chapter in our lives. We are now ready to put into practice the skills we acquired,” another graduate said.
Officials and college authorities highlighted the institution’s growing role in community development.
“Our focus is on equipping young people with livestock production skills while empowering the surrounding community. This initiative is a catalyst for economic development. The success we celebrate today will not only be measured by certificates, but by improved livelihoods, food security and graduates who become drivers of national development,” Mr Lawrence Matshazi, Principal of Ngamo College said.
Mr Tapera Mugoriya, Director of Local Government in Matabeleland North, emphasised the wider significance of the graduates’ achievements.
“Your education here represents more than personal advancement; it is an investment in your community. You have been equipped not only to succeed, but to serve, to create value and to build a shared future for this province,” Mr Mugoriya said.
Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, urged graduates to apply their skills to create opportunities.
“You are the engineers of our practical future. These certificates are not just pieces of paper, but tools to add value to our country. You are not job seekers, but job creators. Embrace innovation, improve existing systems, reduce imports and help feed the nation. Skills and innovation are the foundation of economic development,” she said.
Government is pushing the establishment of a Vocational Training Centre in every district with Ngamo Livestock Farm and Vocational Training College playing a key role in fulfilling this national vision.
