The Board Chairperson of the Youth and Community Development Organization in Nkhotakota, Vincent Stima Phiri, has expressed concern over the growing number of young people who are shunning vocational and technical skills training despite the availability of favourable entry requirements and opportunities.
Speaking during a career talk organized for students at the institution, Phiri said many young people prefer white-collar jobs and often overlook vocational trades such as carpentry, tailoring, welding, plumbing and motor vehicle mechanics — fields that have the potential to provide self-employment and sustainable income.
In an interview, Phiri, who also chairs Youth Code, attributed the low enrolment in skills development centres in the district to negative perceptions surrounding technical and vocational education.
He said several factors are contributing to the low turnout, including the desire for quick money and a lack of understanding of the programmes offered at the institution.
Phiri added that the organization plans to work closely with communities to identify and mobilize eligible youths to enrol, emphasizing that vocational skills can empower young people to become self-reliant and even create jobs for others.
In a separate interview, the institution’s Executive Director, Robert Mbaya, said the organization is intensifying awareness campaigns and strengthening collaboration with various stakeholders to enhance publicity and promote skills training programmes.
Mbaya also urged parents and guardians to encourage their children to consider technical and vocational education as a viable career path. He said the institution provides equipment and start-up capital support to some graduates to help them establish their own businesses.
Meanwhile, a student pursuing tailoring and design, Favour Kalima, described the career talk as timely and motivating. She said the engagement encouraged students not to look down on themselves, noting that vocational skills are often underrated. Kalima further advised fellow youths to consider enrolling at the institution.
The Youth and Community Development Organization empowers young people through vocational training programmes such as tailoring, welding and fashion design, among others.
