malvernmugadzikwa
Sunday Mail Reporter
THE Government plans to set up at least one vocational training centre (VTC) in each district of the country, while a programme to rehabilitate existing ones has since commenced.
Presently, there are 45 VTCs in Zimbabwe, as well as 25 satellite stations.
Zimbabwe has 10 administrative provinces, which are divided into 64 districts.
In an interview with The Sunday Mail, acting director of communications and advocacy in the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Mr Ranson Madzamba said: “Our strategy as a ministry is to expand the vocational training initiative through the setting up of new VTCs across all districts within Zimbabwe and ensure that young people and communities have access to skills training initiatives.
“Currently, the ministry operates a total of 45 VTCs on full establishment and 25 satellite centres have been set up to support these existing centres due to the demand for VTCs within communities across the country.”
The Government, he said, had developed a vocational training transformation roadmap, which is being implemented until 2027.
“This exercise will oversee the modernisation of VTCs, ensure infrastructural development and quality assurance and standardisation of the VTC operations.
“Financial models are also being developed to support this initiative whilst also engaging other stakeholders within the public and private sectors.”
The Government has since engaged the Public Service Commission to ensure that existing VTCs are adequately staffed.
VTCs are essentially schools that equip students with skills for a particular job or trade.
They focus on practical, hands-on learning, instead of a purely academic curriculum.
They also typically provide programmes in various fields like carpentry, welding, cosmetology, computer repair and mechanics.
The training is designed to get one ready for employment by imparting industry-specific knowledge and skills.
Some VTCs even assist graduates with job placement after graduation.
Added Mr Madzamba: “This year is going to see the ministry transforming our vocational training centres, which of late have not been given the necessary priority, recognition and funding.
“We have already developed a blueprint for the transformation of VTCs, to turn them into centres of excellence that are self-sustaining and contribute to the overall growth of the economy.
“Our transformation agenda is going to happen in all the districts, as we envisage a situation where we are going to allow every district to have a vocational training centre.”
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