By Tafara Pande
HARARE – The Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, in collaboration with the Harare Institute of Technology (HIT), hosted belated commemorations of World Skills Day at HIT yesterday. The global day, officially recognized each year on July 15, highlights the importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship.
Delivering a keynote address on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Solomon Mhlanga, the Acting Deputy Director of the Vocational Training Department, Mr. Henry Nemutenzi, emphasized the Government’s commitment to youth empowerment through digital skills development.
Mr. Mhlanga, in his message, stressed the urgent need to strengthen partnerships between Government and various stakeholders to ensure that young people are prepared for the demands of the modern economy.
“I call upon all partners in the private sector, civil society, and local and international development partners to join hands with the Ministry in scaling up digital skills programs. Let us all co-create pathways that are accessible, equitable, and transformative,” he said.
The commemorations provided a platform for policymakers, educators, and development partners to reflect on the evolving skills landscape, especially in light of Zimbabwe’s drive toward a digital economy. Discussions highlighted the critical role of ICT training in combating youth unemployment, curbing drug abuse, and creating sustainable livelihoods.
Stakeholders at the event agreed that digital literacy is no longer optional but a necessity for the nation’s youth to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that vocational training centers and tertiary institutions remain hubs of innovation, equipping students with both technical know-how and entrepreneurial skills.
