Govt and Partners Invest K1 Billion in Skills Training Infrastructure and Equipment
The Government of Zambia, in collaboration with its cooperating partners, has invested K1 billion in the development of infrastructure and the purchase of equipment for skills training institutes across the country since 2021.
The investment includes the construction of the Mporokoso and Lundazi Training Institutes in Northern and Eastern Provinces, respectively. Both institutes have been completed, with equipment installed and ready for commissioning.
Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Chipota Mutati, emphasized that this significant investment aims to provide young people with access to quality education that can transform their lives. This year alone, 95,000 youths are being funded by the 20% skills component of the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) in various colleges nationwide.
“We’re making it easier for youths to acquire skills by providing both funding and the latest equipment,” said Mr. Mutati during a send-off dinner for 11 youths and 10 experts who will represent Zambia at the World Skills Competition in France from 10th to 15th September 2024.
The minister highlighted the importance of skills in securing a future for young people and urged the Zambian team to excel in their respective categories at the competition.
He also announced that the government would offer incentives to the team if they win at the event in Lyon, France.
“Competing at the World Skills Competition in France is a preparation for the World Skills Africa Competition, which Zambia will host in Livingstone in April 2025. Go there, compete against the best, and show the world what Zambia can do,” Mr. Mutati added.
The Zambian participants will compete in various categories, including Information Network Cabling, Bricklaying, Carpentry, Mechanical Engineering, Concrete Construction Work, Digital Construction, Aircraft Maintenance, Welding, Hairdressing, and Restaurant Service.
Technology and Science Permanent Secretary, Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, reiterated the government’s commitment to sponsoring the competitors and experts, as skills development is a key mandate of the Ministry. He encouraged the team to perform their best, with all financial needs fully covered by the government.
World Skills Zambia Project Manager, Precious Lisulo, expressed confidence in the team, noting that the 11 competitors were selected during the National Skills Competition held in July 2024, where they emerged as the best from various colleges. Lisulo is optimistic that they will excel in France.
