ROSELINE MUTARE
CHIVI-The first ever graduation ceremony held at Chivi-Mhandamabwe Vocational Training Centre saw 203 young people getting certificates after completing courses in various disciplines.
The graduands who were drawn from Chivi and Mwenezi Districts earned vocational skills in fields such as welding, hospitality, cosmetology, and tailoring, under a project aimed at building resilience and enhancing food security among drought-affected smallholder farmers.
The ‘Building Resilience and Enhancing Food Security for Drought-Affected Smallholder Farmers’ Project, implemented by CARE Zimbabwe with its partner UNDP in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training and Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, was funded by the Embassy of Japan.
Notably, this was the first-ever graduation ceremony held at Chivi Mhandamabwe VTC, marking a significant milestone for the institution as previous events were held at Mushagashe in Masvingo District.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Tinoda Machakaire, urged the graduates to venture into businesses and explore market opportunities in technology, agriculture, and sustainable enterprises.
“Today, you are equipped with a diverse array of knowledge, practical skills, and valuable resources that can empower you to make a meaningful impact in your communities,” he said.
Erina Chinyengetere, VTC Centre Head, expressed confidence that the graduates would utilise their skills to contribute to the country’s development.
“The skills they have acquired will go a long way in improving their livelihoods and contributing to the country’s economic growth,” she said.
Ellen Chigwada, assistant Country Director Programs at CARE Zimbabwe, highlighted the importance of youth empowerment in driving development.
“We are committed to supporting initiatives that empower young people with skills and resources to drive sustainable development in their communities,” she added.
The graduates were also given start-up kits worth USD 10,000 courtesy of CARE Zimbabwe, to help them kick-start their businesses.
Dr Vhusomusi Sithole, UNDP Representative, emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving development goals.
“Partnerships like this one are crucial in driving development and achieving our shared goals of poverty reduction and economic growth,” he said.
Chivi North MP, Godfrey Huruva Mukungunugwa, welcomed the initiative.
“This project is a game-changer for our area, providing young people with the skills they need to succeed. I commend the government led by our visionary leader President Dr E.D Mnangagwa and our development partners for their support to make our country a middle income economy by 2030,” he said.
The graduation ceremony was attended by several senior government officials, development partners, and other stakeholders, who commended the initiative and pledged their continued support.
