Online Reporter
Andile Tshuma, Zimpapers Writer
THE City of Bulawayo on Thursday celebrated a defining moment in youth empowerment as 243 vocational trainees graduated, marking a bold stride towards equipping young people with practical skills that fuel employment, entrepreneurship and national development.
The ceremony comes at a time when Government is intensifying efforts to build an inclusive, resilient and productive economy, with vocational and technical education increasingly recognised as a cornerstone of industrial growth.
Held at the historic Bulawayo City Hall, the colourful event was a vivid reminder that in today’s labour market, hands-on skills often speak louder than academic credentials.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Deputy Mayor Councillor Edwin Ndlovu, Bulawayo Mayor Councillor David Coltart described the graduation as a symbol of resilience, discipline and readiness to contribute meaningfully to economic progress.
“This is not just a graduation ceremony, but a celebration of hard work, perseverance and commitment to excellence. Zimbabwe’s economic growth depends on skilled individuals who can build, innovate and transform industry. Today marks your entry into that vital space,” he said.
The graduates completed rigorous three-year programmes in a wide range of disciplines — from building, carpentry and joinery to agriculture, dressmaking, motor mechanics, solar installation, house wiring, plumbing, metal fabrication, hotel and catering, painting, home economics and cutting and designing. The event ran under the theme
“Championing Youth Empowerment through Skills Training”, which Clr Coltart said aligns with Vision 2030 and the Education 5.0 framework that champions innovation, problem-solving and value creation.
He urged graduates to embrace entrepreneurship in a competitive job market and pursue further professional development, including trade tests, to sharpen their employability.
“The current economic environment requires innovators who create jobs, not just job seekers. Use the skills you have acquired to start enterprises and uplift yourselves and others,” he said.
The mayor commended the Bulawayo City Council’s housing and community services department for widening access to vocational training and acknowledged the support of development partners such as SNV, World Vision, Plan International Zimbabwe and the Bulawayo Vendors and Traders Organisation (BVTO). He also extended gratitude to companies that provided industrial attachment placements, saying their contribution was critical to the success of the programme.
“In equipping the youth, we are laying the foundation for sustainable development and inclusive economic growth,” he said.
Certificates were conferred on the graduates, with several excelling in their respective fields. Among the top achievers was Thandeka Ndlovu (21), the best overall student in Solar Installation, who said the training had transformed her outlook on life.
“This programme gave me confidence and practical skills. I want to start a small solar installation business in my community and help households access clean energy,” she said.
Another top graduate, Sipho Moyo (23), who excelled in motor mechanics, said the hands-on approach prepared him for the real world.
“The practical sessions were demanding, but they shaped me. I am now ready to open my own workshop,” he said.
Parents and guardians also shared their pride in the graduates’ achievements. Nomsa Dube, whose son completed carpentry and joinery, said the journey had not been easy.
“There were times we doubted, but today we are proud. This qualification gives our children hope,” she said.
Joseph Sibanda, a parent of a dressmaking graduate, said vocational training was a lifeline for many families.
“Skills are important. With these certificates, our children can earn a living and support their families,” he said.
