Youth pursuing technical and vocational skills have been urged to embrace self-employment as a realistic and sustainable path to economic independence, rather than relying solely on scarce formal office jobs.
The call was made on Monday by Vice President Jane Ansah’s Special Advisor on Governance, Alex Machira, during his visit to One For All Organization Technical College at Malosa in Zomba, where he addressed 123 students drawn from different localities and enrolled in various courses.
Encouraging the students to work hard, Machira said taking skills training seriously was key to securing their future. “You must work hard and focus on your training because these skills can make you self-reliant and economically independent,” he said.
He added that technical and vocational skills empower young people to create opportunities for themselves and others. “With the skills you are acquiring here, you should not be job seekers. You can create your own jobs and even employ others,” he told the students.
Machira further said technical and skills development play a critical role in shaping the future of young people and supporting government efforts to realize the Malawi 2063 development agenda.
“A skilled and productive youth is essential if we are to achieve the Malawi 2063 vision of self-reliance and national development,” added Machira.
Meanwhile, the institution’s Director, James Kajawo, hailed Machira for visiting the college, saying the engagement had greatly motivated both students and staff. “The visit has inspired our students to take their training seriously and to believe in the value of the skills they are acquiring,” Kajawo said.
Kajawo further said the interaction had reinforced the importance of technical education in addressing youth unemployment and promoting self-reliance.
“When leaders take time to engage directly with our students, it gives them confidence and hope that skills development is truly a national priority,” he said.
