A TOTAL of 203 youths from Chivi and Mwenezi districts in Masvingo on Wednesday graduated after completing vocational training programmes in areas including welding, hospitality studies, cosmetology and tailoring.
Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training minister Tinoda Machakaire hailed vocational skills training as a key tool in building resilience and improving food security among drought-affected communities.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony at Chivi-Mhandamahwe Vocational Training Centre in Chivi yesterday, the minister highlighted the role of skills development in supporting sustainable agriculture and rural livelihoods.
“It is a profound honour for me to stand before you today at this prestigious graduation ceremony celebrating the achievements of the youth who have been trained under the ‘Building Resilience and Enhancing Food Security for Drought-Affected Smallholder Farmers’ project,” Machakaire said.
The initiative is being implemented by CARE Zimbabwe in collaboration with the ministries of Youth Development and Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, with funding from the embassy of Japan in Zimbabwe through the Japan supplementary budget.
Machakaire said the programme equipped young people with practical skills that enabled them to support sustainable agricultural practices in their communities.
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“This vital initiative aims to equip young people with the skills and knowledge necessary to support sustainable agricultural practices in their communities.”
He noted that international partnerships are critical in addressing challenges faced by smallholder farmers affected by climate change and drought.
“The project exemplifies how international partnerships can effectively address the challenges faced by smallholder farmers affected by drought,” Machakaire said.
“These programmes not only provide valuable certificates but also equip participants with essential skills needed for meaningful employment and entrepreneurial ventures.”
“By empowering these young people with practical skills, we are taking direct action to reduce youth unemployment, foster economic inclusion and promote self-reliance.”
The programme included US$36 000 for training fees and US$100 000 worth of start-up kits to help graduates start income-generating projects, according to Machakaire.
“These kits are designed to equip graduates with the necessary tools and resources to launch their own businesses or secure employment in their chosen fields.”