The ManicaPost
Luthando Mapepa
Chipinge Correspondent
GOVERNMENT has intensified efforts to build vocational training centres in all districts across the country as a way of developing entrepreneurial skills, self sustenance and industrial growth.
This was revealed by director of vocational training centres and skills development in the Ministry of Youth Empowerment and Development, Mr Munyaradzi Mudzamiri, during the Chipinge Vocational Training Centre’s sixth graduation ceremony last week on Friday.
Mr Mudzamiri said vocational training and skills development is a strategic key area for the country to attain an upper middle income economy by 2030.
“The Ministry of Youth Empowerment and Development is currently embarking on a drive to establish a vocational training centre in every district. This will ensure that a substantial number of youths who do not have the opportunity to pursue education through the so-called formal system will be able to get relevant vocational and skills training.
“To attain the national vision of an upper middle income economy by 2030, the youths cannot be left out. This is why Government is investing in them. We need to invest in more vocational centres and ensure that they are fully supported with the necessary resources for them to provide quality training to the youths,” said Mr Mudzamiri.
He added that the establishment of vocational training centres will help Government in fighting drug and substance abuse among youths.
“We are currently fighting drug and substances abuse and therefore we need to introduce more vocational programmes for all youths.
“Imparting entrepreneurship skills to youths play a significant role in enabling them to refrain from drug and substance abuse and re-direct their efforts to the development of the country,” said Mr Mudzamiri.
Chipinge Vocational Training Centre principal, Mr Stephen Maseta said they embarked on various projects aimed at uplifting the lives of the graduates.
“We have introduced programmes such as welding, brick laying, tiling and food processing which are helping youths to create employment after graduating,” said Mr Maseta.
“As a college, we are grateful that our enrolment is increasing each year. We are therefore calling upon Government to continue supporting us so that we continue offering quality services,” he said.
Chipinge East legislator, Honourable Lincoln Dhliwayo hailed Government for coming up with opportunities for marginalised communities.
“Our community is now being empowered through these programmes. We are grateful for this gesture and we are urging the community to utilise the opportunity,” he said.
