The Chabota Vocational Training Center is an expansion of the Chabota Agricultural Training Center project. This earlier project was successfully completed and has been training 90 young people since 2021. The participants received comprehensive training, encompassing both theoretical and practical instruction in occupational safety, health and the environment, crop production, soil science, agricultural technology, animal husbandry, farm management, communication methods, computer skills, and entrepreneurship/self-employment. The expansion of the project at the Chibombo Farm aims to offer even more at-risk youth a perspective for a self-determined future.
New training opportunities and capacity expansion
Demand for apprenticeships at the Chabota Vocational Training Centre is high, and NACRO Zambia has recognized the potential to train even more young people. The project aims to create training opportunities for an additional 30 apprentices – or at least 90% of the 180 apprentices not living in the boarding facilities – in carpentry and joinery, metalworking, computer skills, tailoring, and other relevant courses during the project’s duration. Upon completion of their training, participants will receive a certificate that will improve their career prospects. The introduction of these courses is intended not only to increase the number of apprenticeships but also to generate additional income for the centre to cover its operating costs.
Construction of wood and metal workshops
To further expand training opportunities and cover operating costs, NACRO is seeking investment in a wood and metal workshop for the production and sale of tables and chairs. The construction and commissioning of training facilities for metal and woodworking are planned to generate revenue. Through the introduction of these programs, trainees will produce and sell desks, tables, beds, and chairs to support the business and ensure its long-term sustainability and financial security. Selected participants will attend these courses with an “education voucher” from the municipal development fund. This initiative is expected to be profitable, as the Zambian government plans to equip all schools with tables and chairs in the coming years. This expansion will also make it possible to introduce new 3-6 month courses in agriculture, food and beverage production, carpentry, and metalworking.
Help us support these vulnerable young people
This initiative directly empowers 180 vulnerable young people by providing them with essential life skills and vocational training through comprehensive programs. These skills are not only a path to employment, but also a means of energizing entire communities, breaking the cycle of poverty, and giving these young people a chance at a better future.
As the saying goes, “Youth is our future,” and we invest in the future of society when we invest in the skills and development of young people. Their contribution helps us to develop these learners into responsible, qualified, and mature citizens who are able to make a meaningful contribution to their community. Together, we can help these young people build a better and more sustainable future.