Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
The Government has called on young women in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions to take a leading role in Zimbabwe’s industrialisation and modernisation drive.
In a speech read on his behalf by the principal human capital planning and skills development officer, Mr James Kapumha, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, Professor Fanuel Tagwira commended the Forum for African Women Educationalists Zimbabwe (FAWEZI) for organising a platform that amplifies the voices of young women.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to the Forum for African Women Educationalists Zimbabwe (FAWEZI) for organising this important event,” he said.
“We particularly commend you for intentionally bringing together the young women from Harare Polytechnic and Belvedere Technical Teachers’ College.
“Creating spaces where students from different backgrounds can converge, share experiences and build networks is the kind of collaborative action that drives meaningful change.”
Prof Tagwira said this year’s International Women’s Day theme – “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls” – should go beyond rhetoric and translate into tangible improvements in learning insitutions.
“The global theme is not just a slogan, it is a call to accountability. It reminds us that celebrating progress is not enough,” he said.
“We must move beyond rhetoric to ensure that the rights of every young woman are protected, that justice is accessible and that our actions create tangible improvements in their daily lives.”
Prof Tagwira challenged young women to see themselves as key drivers of national development.
“You are not just participants in this nation’s development; you are its architects,” he said.
“Your presence in TVET and STEM fields is critical. You are the engineers, technicians, educators, and the problem-solvers who will drive the industrialisation and modernisation of our country,” he said.
Prof Tagwira reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening policies that protect students from sexual harassment and gender-based violence, while promoting disability inclusion in tertiary institutions.
“We are working to strengthen policies that protect women from sexual harassment and gender-based violence. We are equally committed to ensuring that no young woman is left behind, which is why we are actively promoting disability inclusion,” he said.
Prof Tagwira urged institutions to ensure campuses were accessible and equipped with assistive technologies to cater for students with diverse needs.
He also encouraged young women to actively participate in shaping policies that affect their education.
“Step into your leadership. Your voices are powerful tools for change. Use them to speak out against injustices on your campuses and hold your institutions accountable for creating the safe spaces you deserve.”
He called on stakeholders, including FAWEZI, tertiary institutions and development partners to strengthen collaboration and create more opportunities for young women in TVET and STEM fields.
