DEFE, Gokwe, Aug. 11 (NewsDay Live) — The Zion Christian Church (ZCC) has graduated 450 young people trained in practical and vocational skills, highlighting the growing role of faith-based institutions in equipping youths for livelihoods amid limited formal employment opportunities.
The graduates completed training in bricklaying, plumbing, electrical installation, welding, carpentry, horticulture, poultry and food preparation under a programme funded by the church in partnership with government.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony at Defe during the church’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire said the initiative was about creating opportunities for young people beyond formal employment.
“Today is not simply about certificates, it is about dignity through skills, hope, opportunity and empowerment through productive work,” Machakaire said.
He said the programme reflected President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s policy of leaving no one and no place behind, adding that government was taking vocational training and economic opportunities into communities through partnerships with institutions such as churches.
“Here at Defe, that vision has become a reality,” he said.
Machakaire said the partnership demonstrated that churches could play a broader developmental role beyond their traditional functions.
“You have demonstrated that the church is not only a place of worship, but also a powerful partner in building disciplined, skilled and productive communities,” he said.
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The programme comes as Zimbabwe continues to promote technical and vocational education, entrepreneurship and small-scale production as avenues for youth economic participation in an economy where formal employment opportunities remain limited.
For the graduates, the training provides practical pathways into construction, electrical work, welding, carpentry and plumbing, while agricultural courses such as horticulture and poultry offer opportunities to establish income-generating projects.
The graduation was part of ZCC’s Golden Jubilee celebrations marking 50 years since the death of its founder, Reverend Samuel Mutendi.
The church, under the leadership of Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi, has expanded its activities into education, youth development, community support and economic empowerment.
Mutendi used the occasion to recognise First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa’s contribution to women, young people, families and communities.
“Your contribution has been felt in the hearts of the people, particularly women, young people, families and communities,” he said.
He said women had a critical role to play in strengthening families and communities and urged young people to uphold discipline, responsibility, dignity and cultural identity.
“The future of a nation is secured when its young people are taught values, discipline, responsibility, dignity and respect for their cultural identity,” Mutendi said.
The 450 graduates now join a growing pool of young Zimbabweans being encouraged to turn vocational skills into self-employment and small enterprises.
The ZCC programme also underscores the potential of partnerships between government and faith-based organisations in expanding access to skills training and community development.
