By Sibonginkosi Mpala
Two hundred and eighty youths from various wards in Umzingwane District, Matabeleland South graduated last Sunday after completing vocational skills training facilitated by Tonganyika Trust in collaboration with the Ministries of Youth Development and Women Affairs.
The graduation ceremony, held at Heany Hall in Esigodini, marked the completion of practical skills training aimed at promoting self-reliance, entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods among young people in the district.
Deputy Minister of Defence and Umzingwane Member of Parliament, Levi Mayihlome, who officiated at the ceremony, commended Tonganyika Trust for initiating the programme.
On this topic
“This programme is affording our wards an opportunity to be productively engaged. Our goal is to make sure our youths are skilled so that they can sustain themselves and contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities,” said Mayihlome.
Representatives from the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training and Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development also reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting skills development programmes targeting young people and women across the country.
Among the graduates was Thomas Bhebhe, who completed driving lessons and obtained a provisional driver’s licence.
“I am grateful to Tonganyika Trust and the government. The driving lessons have given me a chance to look for work and to support my family. I now have hope for the future,” Bhebhe said.
Another graduate, Pretty Ncube, completed training in cutting and designing and said the skills had given her an opportunity to pursue self-employment.
“The skills I have acquired in cutting and designing will enable me to start my own tailoring business. I no longer have to wait for formal employment. I can create my own job,” Ncube said.
Tonganyika Trust officials said the organisation would continue working with government and other stakeholders to expand vocational skills training opportunities in Umzingwane and surrounding areas.
The programme comes as unemployment and limited access to formal employment continue to drive demand for practical skills and entrepreneurship opportunities among young people in Zimbabwe.
Leave a Reply