A group photo of graduants
At least 26 students were on Friday awarded with certificates in tinsmith and tailoring at Andiamo Youth Cooperative Trust (AYCT) in Balaka.
Technical, Entrepreneurial and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TEVETA) supported the training, which ran for four weeks. During Friday’s graduation ceremony, 20 people graduated in tinsmith whereas six graduated in tailoring.
Speaking when he presided over the ceremony TEVETA training programmes specialist Ishmael Ali urged the graduates to use their skills by creating self-employment.
Ali presenting certificates to the successful students
“The knowledge you have gained here will be wasted if you don’t put it to good use. Open up small businesses that will help to improve your livelihoods,” said Ali.
Ali bemoaned the low participation of women in vocational skills development, which he said, hinders women economic empowerment. He, however, commended Andiamo for its commitment in providing skills development to many youths in the country.
Patrick Bwanali
Speaking on behalf of AYCT’s Executive Director, Patrick Bwanali, who is the Coordinator of Andiamo Education Institutions (AEI) said his institution is committed to promoting education and vocational skills development to many people in the country. He, too, urged the graduates to use the knowledge and skills they have acquired.
“It is our hope and belief that you will be self-reliant as you’ll be able to start your own businesses,” said Bwanali.
Bwanali then applauded the relationship that exists between Andiamo and Teveta. “Let me commend Teveta who are helping us to fulfil our vision, of empowering the youth in the country, with the financial assistance they give us. I would love if this relationship continues,” he said.