
In a major milestone for skills development in Zimbabwe, Cabinet has approved the Implementation Framework for the Transformation of the Vocational Training and Skills Development System (IFTVTSDS) for the period 2025 to 2028.
This forward-thinking framework was presented by Honourable Dr. Fredrick Shava, Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, who chairs the Cabinet Committee on Human Capital Development, Skills Application, and Employment Creation.
The primary aim of this transformative strategy is to elevate the quality, relevance, and inclusivity of vocational skills training programs nationwide. Since the advent of the Second Republic, the Government has been committed to revitalizing vocational training centres (VTCs) across Zimbabwe.
This initiative builds on those efforts, positioning VTCs to become productive hubs that directly contribute to economic growth.
Rooted in the philosophy of Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo (The country is built by its people), the transformation will enable VTCs to offer specialized training tailored to the unique resource endowments of local communities.
By aligning training programs with Zimbabwe’s vast natural resources, including its rich mineral deposits, the framework seeks to create a workforce equipped to harness these assets for national development.
The framework also complements key Government initiatives, such as the Village Business Units, the Pfumvudza/Intwasa Programme, the National Solarisation Programme, and various housing schemes.
These projects require a skilled workforce to advance rural industrialization and support Zmbabwe’s Vision 2030 goals.
Through this integrated approach, VTCs will play a pivotal role in equipping citizens with the skills needed to drive innovation, create jobs, and generate income in both rural and urban areas.Spanning January 2025 to December 2028, the transformation plan prioritizes practical, market-oriented training that aligns with the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 framework.
This educational model emphasizes skills development, job creation, and entrepreneurial innovation, ensuring that students graduating from VTCs are equipped to contribute meaningfully to the economy.
This strategic move by the Government underscores its commitment to human capital development as a cornerstone of national progress.
By transforming VTCs into centers of excellence, Zimbabwe is investing in its people, ensuring a skilled, capable workforce that will drive sustainable development and economic resilience.