Government says it is keen to improve the welfare of youths through the upgrading of Youth Resource Centers across the country.
Minister of Youth Sports and Arts Elvis Nkandu says his ministry in conjunction with line ministries recognises that as youths need to be empowered with skills to help them become self-reliant.
He said this when he handed over of Information Communication Technology Equipment (ICT) to Chiyota Skills Training Centre in Rufunsa District donated by United National Development Programme (UPND).
“The government is eager to reduce the number of job seekers by empowering graduates from Skills Training Centres with the necessary tools to help them work on their own,” said Mr. Nkandu
He said the government is grateful for the support from UNDP towards ensuring that the training centre is equipped with latest ICT equipment to foster learning and innovation through access to information.
“The internet connectivity will not only benefit the Youth Resource Centre but the community at large.
“ The recent facilitation of 23 star link, the E-Governance Division that have been allocated to all 23 Resource centers is a clear indication that the Government Is closing the digital gap between rural and urban areas as this will enhance Internet connectivity throughout the country,” said Mr. Nkandu
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Receiving the donations Lusaka Province Minister Sheal Mulyata said government has prioritised the well-being of the youths because they are the backbone of the nation’s progress.
In a speech read on her behalf by Rufunsa District Commissioner Richard Mabena, the minister said the gesture is a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to tackle youth unemployment in the country.
“By equipping the Centre with necessary tools, we are fostering an environment ripe for job creation, Innovation and entrepreneurship, said Mr. Mabena
And UNDP Representative James Wakiaga said the organisation is committed to developing an ICT hub for women, youth and children regardless of their background.
Mr Wakiaga stressed that ICT is critical to the development of any nation that is why his organisation has stepped in to supplement Government efforts in order to bridge the gap in technology.
Speaking on behalf of Chief Bunda Bunda Headman Chiyota expressed gratitude to the government and UNDP for the gesture
The Headmen urged the community to take advantage of the donation by enrolling their children at the center for their benefit.
“l am concerned by your attitude of not encouraging your children to enroll at the centre, l have noted with concern that most students at the center come from other places, ” Chief Bunda Bunda said.
Student’s representative Margaret Changwe said the donation of ICT equipment is a dream come true. She thanked the Government and the UNDP for the donation.
“We are very delighted about the ICT. We will use the Internet to Google and have insight of our assignments”, said Ms. Changwe”.
