Online Reporter
Emmanuel Kafe
Construction of the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Vocational Training Centre in Matobo District, Matabeleland South, is progressing steadily, with key infrastructure taking shape ahead of this year’s Independence Day celebrations in the province.
The project, funded by Treasury through the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, is one of several major developments underway in Matabeleland South as the region prepares to host Uhuru festivities in the coming days.
Site Engineer, Engineer Gift Masuku, said significant progress has been recorded under phase one of the project, including the development of core infrastructure at the 22-hectare site.
“Phase one focuses on the boundary wall and fencing, internal roads and key buildings. So far, the boundary wall is about 60 percent complete, while the boundary fence has been fully completed,” said Eng Masuku.
He said the construction of a 1.8-kilometre internal road network is also advancing well, with works currently at 65 percent.
“The roadworks are being done in phases, with final surfacing expected during phase two that comes after April 18,” he said.
Eng Masuku added that several structures are at different stages of completion, including the administration block, which is about 40 percent complete, with some sections already at roof level.
He said the first classroom block, comprising eight classrooms, is now at around 90 percent, with roofing already underway.
“A second block of eight classrooms is currently at the foundation stage, with concrete works in progress,” he said.
Construction of the gatehouse has also commenced, with steel frame works now at 20 percent completion.
The vocational centre will also feature four workshops designed using modern steel I-beams and IBR sheeting.
The workshops are currently at 20 percent, with excavation and column construction underway, while materials are being fabricated off-site.
Eng Masuku said the sports pavilion had been deferred to a later phase, as focus remains on completing critical infrastructure under phase one.
Phase two of the project is expected to include a multi-purpose hall, dining hall, library, student hostels, staff accommodation, a crèche, clinic and a police post.
The vocational training centre is set to play a key role in equipping youths with practical skills, in line with Government’s drive to expand technical and vocational education across the country.
The project adds to a growing list of infrastructure developments in Matabeleland South as the province gears up to host the Independence Day national celebrations.
