Vocational skills key to Vision 2030

Sikhumbuzo Moyo-Bulawayo Bureau

THE Government is committing significant resources to enhance vocational skills development and drive the country’s transformation towards Vision 2030.

Youth Empowerment, Development, and Vocational Training Minister, Tino Machakaire, yesterday presided over the joint graduation ceremony for Bulawayo and Matabeleland North Vocational Training Centres (VTCs).

The event celebrated the graduation of 2 756 students who received training in a wide range of courses, including basketry, agriculture, carpentry, electronics, welding, cosmetology, catering, solar installation, and clothing.

Minister Machakaire congratulated the graduates for their hard work and encouraged them to apply their newly acquired skills to expand business opportunities and contribute to the growth of Zimbabwe’s economy. He emphasised that the country’s ability to create more jobs and improve production depends on how effectively the graduates can apply their knowledge and expertise.

The event was a significant milestone in the Government’s efforts to bridge the skills gap and promote vocational education in Zimbabwe.

He said with more resources and support, the country can develop a skilled workforce to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable economic growth.

“It’s important to realise that even though you now possess qualifications, it is not the qualifications alone that will lead to success, but your attitude and emotional intelligence, which are critical factors for sustainable success,” he said.

Minister Machakaire said VTCs act as the Government’s conduits for industrialisation and economic development hence the growing embracing of digital technology and climate-smart skills development across the spectrum.

In her welcome remarks read by deputy director, Ms Beaullar Gwaze, Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Judith Ncube, expressed the Government’s appreciation of the increasing number of youths acquiring skills that have the potential to change their lives and those of their communities.

“Skill is more powerful than strength, it is indeed true that skill is more powerful than strength. Having strength without skill may lead one to be defeated,” she said.

Minister Ncube said before they even begin searching for employment, the graduates are already their own employers, adding that it was her hope that they had already started something at home and encouraged them to make use of social media platforms to advertise their businesses.