Online Reporter
Takudzwa Mangrozah-Herald Reporter
Some 312 students graduated from the Ruwa Vocational Training Centre last Friday, with the Government urging them to leverage their newly acquired skills for innovation, discipline and contributions to national development.
The ceremony combined the graduation with the launch of the Ruwa Social Innovation Hub, attracting senior Government officials, partners, families and training staff, all united in promoting a more productive, disciplined and drug-free youth population.
Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire said the graduation ceremony represented “a moment of celebration, transformation and promise” for Zimbabwe as it strengthens its investment in vocational skills.
“We come together to acknowledge the accomplishments of 312 young Zimbabweans who have successfully completed their training. This day belongs to you. Carry your trade with pride, remain disciplined, and honour your country,” he said.
Minister Machakaire said the graduation theme, “Innovate, digitalise and enterprise training and skills development combating drug and substance abuse”, reflected the Government’s commitment to addressing the growing drugs challenge among youths.
“Drug and substance abuse continues to threaten the well-being and potential of many young people.”
He reiterated that skills training served not only as an economic tool, but also a source of dignity, identity and purpose.
The ceremony combined the graduation with the launch of the Ruwa Social Innovation Hub, attracting senior Government officials, partners, families and training staff, all united in promoting a more productive, disciplined and drug-free youth population.
The minister commended both Ruwa and Chitungwiza Vocational Training Centres for expanding their programmes to include carpentry, bricklaying, cosmetology, automobile electronics, motor mechanics, hotel and catering and clothing technology.
“They have woven entrepreneurship and business training into every discipline and strengthened partnerships with industry,” he said.
Minister Machakaire assured delegates and graduates that the Government remains committed to supporting these institutions through infrastructure upgrades, modern equipment and incubation centres.
“Providing a young person with skills brings stability to a family, productivity to a community, and progress to a nation.
“Let your skills guide you and your creativity inspire you,” he said.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Province, Senator Charles Tawengwa, who was represented by Mrs Spiwe Nyamatore, the Director of Economic Affairs and Investment, praised the graduates for their resilience and dedication.
“Your journey has not been easy, but your achievements reflect your commitment and determination,” he said.
“May you take the skills you have acquired into the world, driving change and contributing positively to our society.”
Minister Tawengwa also said vocational training is central to empowering young people and addressing the rise in drug and substance abuse.
He added that Government’s commitment to innovation and enterprise is imperative as the nation navigates modern challenges affecting communities.
The ceremony featured the commissioning of the Ruwa Social Innovation Hub, a facility designed to cultivate climate-conscious innovators and digital entrepreneurs.
Supported by BOOST and various partners including the Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, UNICEF, the Zimbabwe Youth Council, ZB Bank, and the European Union, the hub is expected to equip young people with skills in green technologies, digital transformation and sustainable enterprise.
