A total of 111 students have graduated under the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services from the Namushakende Skills Training Centre in Mongu District.

The graduates received certificates in various life and business skills, including carpentry and joinery, fashion and design technology, bricklaying and plastering, and home management and catering.

Western Province Permanent Secretary, Mr. Simomo Akapelwa graced the 4th graduation ceremony and commended the graduates for their discipline, hard work and determination throughout their training.

He urged them to use their newly acquired skills not only to better their lives but also to contribute to national development.

“You have been equipped with tools that are now yours, not in a toolbox, but in your minds and hands. I encourage you to move away from the mindset of waiting for formal employment”, Mr Simomo further said.

He further encouraged the graduates to be employers amidst government support and empowerment such as grants and loans under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC), and the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts.

He further encouraged them to form cooperatives and take advantage of government procurement opportunities such as the supply of school uniforms .

Representing the Director of Community Development, Mr. Changano Ngoi, the Principal of Kitwe Community Staff Development Training College, Mr. Charles Mumba, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to empowering communities through practical training.

“Skills development is at the heart of national development. As a Ministry, we are committed to ensuring that our training centres are equipped and supported to produce graduates who are not just job seekers, but job creators.

He congratulated the Namushakende Centre and its graduates for upholding that vision of empowering communities with life changing skills.