$100 Million Grant to Transform Skills Development in Zambia
Zambia is set to receive a $100 million grant aimed at strengthening technical and vocational education, with the planned launch of the Skills Training for Resilience and Industry-Valued Employment (STRIVE) project, the Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Mutati, has announced.
Although the project is awaiting formal approval, Minister Mutati confirmed that Zambia intends to participate in the Multiphase Programmatic Approach, which will allow early preparations while accessing regional funding from the International Development Association (IDA).
The STRIVE initiative will focus on equipping Zambian youth with skills relevant to priority sectors such as mining, agribusiness, and hospitality. The project will upgrade Level 5–7 programmes in selected public and private TEVET institutions, establish Centres of Excellence, pilot a student loan scheme, and expand access to short-term and trade-related training. It will also support entrepreneurship development, improve training quality, and strengthen system management through interoperable information systems.
Once fully implemented, STRIVE is expected to benefit over 35,000 youth enrolled in advanced TEVET programmes and 150,000 in trade courses, addressing at least 80% of the mid-level technician gap in Zambia’s key economic sectors.
Minister Mutati described the project as a “transformative step” for young Zambians, adding: “Our goal is to align skills training with industry needs so that our youth can secure meaningful employment and drive national development.”
The Ministry of Technology and Science will lead the project, supported by a Steering Committee chaired by the Minister and including key stakeholders. The government is also requesting a Project Preparation Advance (PPA) to fast-track early groundwork, with full approval expected by July 2026.
