Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa-Mashonaland West Bureau
EACH district is set to have a Vocational Training Centre as the Government moves to promote national grassroots skills development, mainly in hard-to-reach communities, Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire has said.
He was speaking at Mashayamombe VTC in Mhondoro-Mubaira where 304 youths from eight training centres in Mashonaland West Province graduated with various national trade certificates last Friday.
“In line with our National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), we intend to establish a VTC in every district to promote skills development, particularly in hard-to-reach communities,” he said.
The initiative aims to drive grassroots skills development and empower youths, making vocational training more accessible to all.
Minister Machakaire added that as they push for youth empowerment, they urge them to refrain from drug and substance abuse.
Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire congratulates the 304 graduates from eight Vocational Training Centres in Mashonaland West Province at a ceremony at Mashayamombe VTC in Mhondoro-Mubaira yesterday.
The graduates expressed determination to apply the skills they acquired during their studies to improve their lives and contribute positively to their communities.
Top auto-electric engineering graduate from Kadoma VTC, Memory Mandaba, encouraged young women to pursue technical training.
“The auto-electric engineering field is in high demand. I hope to open my workshop as a way to motivate other girls that, with passion, the sky is the limit,” she said.
Tawedzera Shoko, who was the best student in building studies, shared his plans to start a business using a starter pack he received at the graduation the ceremony.
Another graduate, Opportunity Chigodora, who excelled in hospitality and tourism, thanked the Government for facilitating employment opportunities through vocational training.
He noted Minister Machakaire’s commitment to helping graduates gain meaningful work.
Some of the 304 graduates from eight Vocational Training Centres in Mashonaland West Province at a ceremony at Mashayamombe VTC in Mhondoro-Mubaira yesterday.
Senator Chief Ngezi highlighted the importance of VTCs in addressing social issues such as drug abuse and violence in the community.
“Youths are realising that drug and substance abuse often stems from peer pressure. The VTC initiative has empowered our young people with practical skills, enabling them to earn an honest living,” he said.
With plans to open new VTCs in Sanyati, Siakobvu and Mhangura, the Government aims to further expand vocational training opportunities in Mashonaland West.
