Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
GOVERNMENT is seized with modernising and standardising Vocational Training Centres across the country to ensure effective programme implementation and production of skills that foster job creation and drive sustainable national development.
Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Cde Tino Machakaire, said this in Insiza District, Matabeleland South, where he presided over the combined provincial graduation ceremony of vocational training centres (VTCs) on Thursday.
He called for a full adoption of the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) framework saying ensures that graduates possess not only the theoretical knowledge but also the practical, job-ready skills that are in demand in today’s rapidly evolving economy.
This year’s provincial grand graduation was held at Phangani under the theme: “Innovate, Digitise, Enterprise Training and Skills Development: Combating Drug and Substance Abuse”.
A total 443 students made up of 171 females and 272 males graduated from five vocational training centres in Matabeleland South. This follows completion of various courses namely; brick and block laying, carpentry and joinery, clothing and textiles technology, hospitality and tourism, motor mechanics, metal fabrication, fitting and turning, horticulture, cosmetology and electrical engineering inclusive of solar installation.
The graduates were drawn from Phangani Vocational Training Centre, Avoca, Esigodini, Guyu, and St Mary’s Lutumba Vocational Training Centres.
“Vocational training is not merely an educational endeavour; it is a crucial pathway for imparting essential entrepreneurship and technical skills to our communities,” said the minister.
“This initiative aligns seamlessly with the Human Capital Development agenda, which prioritizes youth empowerment as outlined in the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
“Moreover, vocational training and skills development play a vital role in addressing pressing social issues, such as drug and substance abuse. By providing guidance and counselling services alongside technical skills training, we can offer our youth alternative avenues for personal growth and economic empowerment,” he added.
Minister Machakaire said this approach resonates with this year’s theme, which emphasises the integration of technology and entrepreneurship within training programmes.
He said investing significantly in expanding existing VTCs and establishing new centres is important and reiterated the need for the institutions to be adequately resourced to provide high-quality training that meets the needs of the local and national economies.
“I urge the private sector to partner with us in the development of our Vocational Training Centres through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). These collaborations have the potential to unlock significant value at the centres while utilising locally available resources, ultimately aiming to revitalise beneficiation and infrastructural development,” he said.
The minister also urged the graduands to take advantage of the funding mechanisms established by the Government, including the facilities provided by Empower Bank, which are designed to uplift youth through financial inclusion.
He said skilled youths will now be prioritised under the youth local facilities in lines with NDS2.
Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mrs Lathiso Dlamini-Maseko, who represented Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Albert Nguluvhe said the graduands will best fit into the mainstream economy and contribute towards the realisation of National Vision 2030.
She said the VTCs play a crucial role in churning out skilled personnel who play a crucial role in developing the province and the entire nation.
Matabeleland South provincial vocational training centres head, Mr Hilton Moyo, urged the graduands to use their skills to fight drug and substance abuse through engaging in gainful employment activities that will empower them economically.
Mr Brendon Tasara who received a prize for being the best in brick and block laying said his desire is to establish a construction company. He graduated from Esigodini Vocational Training Centre.
“I feel greatly honoured by this award. My desire is to start my own construction company where I can groom youngsters and mentor fellow females. I hope my journey can be an inspiration and lesson for someone,” he said.
Ms Sekai Chiradza who received a prize for being best student in agriculture majoring in animal and crop production said it was her desire to actively contribute in developing the country’s agricultural sector through innovation and research.
She said with her knowledge in animal production she wishes to first start by bringing solutions that can boost livestock and crop production in her province before broadening her scope to national level.
The Government through the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training plans to establish at least one vocational training centre in every district of the country.–@DubeMatutu
