Foundation for Community and Capacity Development (FOCCAD) has committed to continue empowering the youth in Nkhotakota with vocational training skills in order for them (youth) to become self-reliant.
FOCCAD Programs Manager, Agnes Manda, made the remarks Monday during an award presentation ceremony for 76 out of school youths who completed an informal training.
She said, the program which started when the organisation observed that many youths were struggling in their economic wellbeing as they had nothing to do in their communities, is aimed at empowering youth, who are out of school, with skills.
Manda explained that after the training, the youth received startup kits in their areas, and are now managing businesses in groups.
“The aim of the program called, Youth Employability Scheme (YES) project, is meant to assist youth economically. We will continue monitoring them in their areas so that they are able to assist others for the sustainability of the project,” said Manda.
Nkhotakota District Youth Officer, Aberson Mwale, commended FOCCAD in its efforts of to uplift lives of the youth in the district.
Mwale urged youth in the district to use his office to register with youth associations.
He stated that his office is collaborating with the Technical, Entrepreneurial and Vocation Education and Training Authority (TEVETA), to support individuals who have undergone informal technical skills and obtained a recognised certificate from TEVETA to assist them access business opportunities in the district.
One of the beneficiaries of the YES project, Shadreck Phaso, said he has secured a job and has committed to assisting other youth in his area to reduce exposure to barbaric behaviors.
With support from Tools for Self-reliance, young people from Sasani, Mkaika and Bamba areas under Senior Chief Mwadzama and Traditional Authority Malengachanzi, have undergone training in skills such as tailoring, designing, carpentry and joinery and electrical installation.
