BULAWAYO councillors have applauded the local authority for introducing vocational training programmes to cater for youth in the city.
This came to light during a full council meeting recently with councillors expressing gratitude to various partners who made the training programme a success.
Councillor Aleck Ndlovu disclosed that youths had graduated after completing various courses offered at vocational training centres.
“I would like to express gratitude to partners which include Plan International and the vendors association for sponsoring various courses including solar installation and garment making,” he said.
Councillor Thandiwe Moyo concurred and called on council to increase enrolment.
“All council empty buildings should be converted to training centres and vocational training personnel should be doubled so that more courses can be offered," she said.
Councillor Melisa Mabeza weighed in saying vocational training centres are also needed in low-density areas.
“One of the ideal facilities in ward 4 has been turned into a church. Tshaka Vocational Training Centre is overwhelmed,” she said.
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Councillor Mxolisi Mahlangu outlined a number of challenges faced in the recruitment of learners at vocational training centres, adding that the programmes were also being affected by nepotism.
“Youths from disadvantaged families are not considered. There are a lot of corruption activities,” he said.
Mahlangu said youths, who were unable to pay bribes, were being frustrated out of the programmes. He said a similar situation was also faced in the engagement of interns.
“Council cashiers were also engaging in corrupt activities. The code of conduct should be applied effectively,” he said.
In response, councillor Sikhululekile Moyo indicated that council is prioritising vocational training especially now as the nation fights the drug and substance abuse scourge.
“A number of organisations have partnered council to improve vocational training and one of them is Plan International. Plan International constructed markets for fresh farm produce in ward 19,” she said.
It was agreed that issues that were raised will be investigated while Moyo disclosed that more than 1 300 youths were equipped with digital skills in Pumula through the programmes.
