‘VCTs key in national development’

Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter

VOCATIONAL Training Centers are key pillars in producing skilled manpower that drives the country’s economic progression and must be regularly supported and have operations reviewed for them to remain relevant in the economy.

This was said by the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Honourable Mutsawashe Ziyambi during the tour of Magamba and Mutare Vocational Training Centers today.

Honourable Ziyambi added that they are on a fact finding mission to assess challenges being faced by these institutions and will come up with recommendations for them to be rescued by central government and other partners.

“As a committee we recognise the critical role that Vocational Training Centres play in equipping our youth with practical skills that enhance their employability, entrepreneurship prospects and overall contribution to the attainment of Vision 2030. In line with our mandate, we have embarked on the series of visits to assess the state of operations at these centers, evaluate the relevance of the curriculum being offered and identify gaps that may require intervention.

“Our key objective are to assess the current state of VCTs, including the infrastructure, training facilities and the resource available to support effective learning. To ascertain progress made towards the modernization of these centers, ensuring that they remain in step with industry demands and technological advancements. To appreciate the challenges faced by both management and trainees, with the aim of making informed recommendations to strengthen vocational training in Zimbabwe,” said Hon Ziyambi.

At Magamba the committee toured the centres various production units such as tobacco field and maize field, computer labs, new hostels and lecture rooms.