Story by Wellington Makonese
THE Vocational Institutions Sports Association (VISA) National Finals concluded at Kaguvi Vocational Training Centre in Gweru, with students from vocational training centres across Zimbabwe competing for national honours while promoting youth empowerment and social cohesion through sport.
The tournament brought together athletes from across the country, providing a platform to showcase sporting talent while reinforcing the values of discipline, teamwork and leadership cultivated through technical and vocational education.
Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Lieutenant General (Rtd) Anselem Sanyatwe said sport plays a vital role in developing well-rounded young people.
“Government is producing athletes who are not only champions on the field, but resilient citizens and role models, with sport complementing vocational training to build productive young people.”
Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Honourable Tino Machakaire said government is integrating sport with life skills and drug prevention programmes as part of its youth development agenda.
“By integrating life skills education, mentorship programmes and drug and substance abuse awareness campaigns into grassroots sport and vocational training, Government is developing young people who possess not only athletic ability and technical skills but also discipline, resilience, integrity and responsible citizenship.”
He said the interventions are designed to protect young people from drug and substance abuse while promoting responsible citizenship and preserving the integrity of sport.
Officials said the competition also serves as a talent identification platform, enabling outstanding athletes to showcase their abilities while encouraging healthy lifestyles and active participation in sport.
The national finals attracted participants from vocational training centres across Zimbabwe, providing opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to compete, exchange ideas and strengthen national unity.
Government said integrating sport with vocational education remains central to its youth empowerment agenda as it seeks to develop skilled, disciplined and responsible young citizens in line with Vision 2030.
