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The Zambian government, in partnership with cooperating entities, has invested K1 billion in infrastructure development and equipment acquisition for skills training institutes since 2021.
This included the completion of the Mporokoso and Lundazi Training Institutes in the Northern and Eastern Provinces, which are now equipped and awaiting commissioning.
Technology and Science Minister, Felix Mutati, announced this during a send-off dinner for 11 youths and 10 experts representing Zambia at the World Skills Competition in France, scheduled from September 10 to 15, 2024.
“The government is investing in infrastructure and equipment for skills training to provide young people with educational opportunities that can transform their lives,” Mutati said, noting that 95,000 youths are currently funded by the 20 percent skills component of the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) across various colleges this year.
Mutati emphasized that the government had simplified access to skills training by providing both funding and a conducive learning environment equipped with the latest technology.
He underscored the importance of skills as a future lifeline for young people.
The Minister encouraged the Zambian delegation to excel in their categories at the World Skills Competition, promising government incentives if they succeed.
“Competing at the World Skills Competition in France is a precursor to the World Skills Africa Competition, which Zambia will host in Livingstone in April 2025. Go and compete against the best in the world and show them what Zambia can do,” he urged.
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The 11 participants would compete in disciplines such as 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, stated that the government decided to sponsor the competitors and experts as part of its mandate to support skills development.
“The competitors must do their best in France, as the government has covered all their financial needs,” Habeenzu said.
World Skills Zambia Project Manager, Precious Lisulo, noted that the 11 competitors were selected during the National Skills Competition held in July 2024, involving various colleges.
She expressed confidence that the Zambian team would excel in France.
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