Government urges Zim College graduates to drive national development

THE Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon Judith Ncube, has urged graduates to use their newly acquired skills to contribute to the nation’s development. She was speaking at the Zimbabwe College of Professional Studies (Zim College) colourful graduation ceremony held yesterday at the Bulawayo Amphitheatre.

In a speech read on her behalf by the Deputy Director for Economic Affairs in her office, Gamuchirai Zizhou, Minister Ncube underlined the importance of skills development in creating a brighter future for Zimbabwe.

“To the graduates, I say to you that the ultimate goal of your education here has been to prepare you to be valuable members of society. Your skills and knowledge are essential for the development and progress of our community and nation. As you enter your various fields, remember that your contributions will shape your future and the future of our communities and country at large,” she said. Minister Ncube also encouraged the graduates to serve as a source of inspiration to their peers.

“I encourage you to be a source of inspiration to other youths who are out there thinking that they do not have courses to do. Lisuka lapha hambani liyekhuthaza abanye benu babuye eZim College bazofunda ukuze babelekusasa elihle,” she said.

Minister Ncube also applauded Zim College for churning out internationally recognised graduates who are sought after on the job market.

“The status that Zim College enjoys with accredited examination bodies continues to give graduates from the college the edge in the country and beyond. Over the years, many Zim College graduates from the Cosmetology department that specialise in beauty therapy and hairdressing have found work on cruise ships across the world. I am happy that Zim College follows the thrust by our President of leaving no one and no place behind,” she said.

A total of 36 students graduated in Cosmetology, Hotel and Catering, Travel and Tourism, Marketing, Office Management and Accounting. There were only three men among the graduates. The event was also used to honour the academic students from Form one to Six who excelled in academics and sports. The ZIM College director, George Mafirakurewa, expressed gratitude to the Government for its support of Black-owned businesses. He highlighted the opportunities that have been created for entrepreneurs in the country and emphasised the importance of the Government’s role in creating a conducive business environment.

“We would like to appreciate the Government for giving us an opportunity to run such organisations which we could only dream of in the past. We are proud to be contributing to the nation’s development and we want to commend the Government for creating a conducive environment for us to empower ourselves and future generations,” he said.

The graduating students expressed their joy and pride in completing their studies. They encouraged their peers to stay away from drugs and to strive for academic excellence. One of the graduates, Lisca Ncube (23), said young people, especially young women, should acquire skills to prevent them from being exploited.

“I would like to encourage my peers, especially the young ladies, to take advantage of the times now when we are allowed to get skills and be empowered. When you have the skills, you are not only empowered financially but also mentally. When you are empowered, people will think twice before attempting to exploit you,” she said.

Another graduate, Lennox Nyathi (21), said directing one’s energy to getting skills is crucial if one is to avoid indulging in social ills like drug and substance abuse.

“I am very excited to be here and I am proud of myself because I managed to resist temptations of drugs and substance abuse. Finding something productive to do really keeps one’s mind occupied with the right things,” he said.