Vocational training scheme for local youths

Mukudzei Chingwere in SURAT, India

THE drive to revitalise Zimbabwe’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) sector is set to receive a major boost following Government’s agreement with India’s Veer Narmad South Gujarat University (VNSGU) to roll out vocational and sector-specific training for local youths.

Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga met the leadership of VNSGU in the company of Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, Raj Modi – an alumnus of the institution – where both sides agreed on modalities to implement training programmes in Zimbabwe.

SMEs and vocational skills are increasingly becoming vital pillars of the global economy.

In Zimbabwe and across the developing world, SMEs have contributed significantly to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), but their growth potential has often been constrained by knowledge and skills gaps. The latest collaboration seeks to bridge this gap by tapping into VNSGU’s expertise.

“Your proximity to thriving industries also offers practical models for Zimbabwe’s own industrialisation efforts,” said Dr Chiwenga.

“We are particularly interested in co-developing vocational training programmes in diamond cutting and polishing, textile manufacturing, industrial maintenance, and chemical processing.

These programmes will equip our youths with market-ready skills and support Zimbabwe’s broader industrial growth.

“In terms of academic collaboration, we propose joint initiatives in disciplines where our strengths align, including textile engineering, gemology, pharmaceutical sciences, environmental science, and ICTs.

“By working together, we can develop joint curricula, conduct field studies, and promote innovation that addresses real-world challenges.”

VP Chiwenga stressed that the engagement reflects the spirit of South-South cooperation, rooted in shared experiences, mutual respect and collective ambition. He added that Zimbabwe is confident the collaboration will empower the next generation and contribute meaningfully to regional and global development goals.

“To move forward, we propose the establishment of a joint working group comprising representatives from VNSGU and Zimbabwean universities, ministries, and research councils,” he added.

VNSGU vice chancellor, Dr Kishorsinh Chavda, welcomed the proposals and assured the Zimbabwean delegation that the institution was ready to collaborate.

He said the university was also open to designing tailor-made programmes that meet Zimbabwe’s specific needs.