Malawi has taken a significant step towards strengthening human capital development following the launch of construction works for four Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) under the €55 million European Union-funded Zantchito–Skills for Jobs Programme.
Minister of Labour, Skills and Innovation, Honourable Joel Chigona, presided over the groundbreaking ceremony at Lilongwe Technical College on Tuesday, describing the initiative as a critical investment in the country’s long-term development agenda and a key enabler of Malawi 2063.
Chigona emphasized that improving workforce qualifications, particularly in agricultural mechanisation, would accelerate agricultural commercialisation and boost food production. He noted that government would support participating institutions to ensure they are well equipped to train youth with relevant technical skills.
He said adopting innovations that strengthen the agricultural sector, including mechanisation, would help young people secure employment or venture into entrepreneurship, thereby contributing to job creation and economic growth.
Principal of Lilongwe Technical College, Suzgika Mvalo, said the project would help bridge skills gaps affecting productivity in the agriculture sector. She explained that commercializing agriculture requires trained plant operators and mechanics, adding that the institution is ready to begin enrolment once construction is complete.
European Union Ambassador Rune Skinnebach Aristi-Gaztelumendi observed that the Technical, Entrepreneurial and Vocational Education and Training (TEVET) sector is currently not producing graduates in sufficient numbers or with the skills demanded by industry. He said the programme is designed to improve training quality and ensure curricula are aligned with labour market needs.
The CoVEs will be established at Lilongwe Technical College focusing on agricultural mechanisation, Malawi Institute of Tourism in Blantyre specializing in tourism, Mzuzu Technical College in renewable energy, and Salima Technical College, which will introduce vocational training in maritime transport.
Construction at Lilongwe Technical College, being undertaken by Shilpa Construction Limited, is expected to be completed within 10 months, with the facility projected to accommodate at least 1,200 students.
Launched in 2020, the Zantchito–Skills for Jobs Programme aims to equip young people with market-relevant skills, strengthen livelihoods and contribute to Malawi’s sustainable socio-economic development.