GOV’T LAUNCHES SKILLS DEVELOPMENT DRIVE TO BUILD INDUSTRY-READY WORKFORCE

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Posted by admin on October 29, 2025 at 5:17 AM

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The Zambian Government has announced a bold new initiative to close the country’s skills gap and boost productivity through targeted training and apprenticeship programmes in key economic sectors.

Speaking at the opening of the Tripartite Consultative Labour Council (CLC) meeting, Minister of Labour and Social Security Brenda Mwika Tambatamba said the Government has prioritized skills development as a cornerstone of Zambia’s economic transformation under the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP).

She revealed that a 12-month pilot apprenticeship programme, set to begin in January 2026, will equip young Zambians with industry-ready skills in sectors such as agriculture, mining, tourism, and energy.

“This pilot program will bridge existing skills gaps, demonstrate the viability of apprenticeships, promote employability, and enhance productivity,” Tambatamba said. “It will also provide lessons for scaling up and attracting sustainable financing from both government and the private sector.”

The Minister also announced the development of a Critical Skills List, created with support from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the European Union (EU), to guide competence-based training and align workforce development with economic needs.

In addition, the Government is proposing to designate air traffic controllers, aviation security personnel, and Electoral Commission of Zambia staff as essential workers, citing their role in safeguarding peace, democracy, and economic continuity.

“I urge members of the Council to consider this proposal objectively, ensuring both workers’ rights and national interests are protected,” she added.

On labour relations, Tambatamba disclosed that a draft Statutory Instrument on the Proliferation of Trade Unions has been developed and will be tabled for further discussion. She reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to social dialogue, noting President Hakainde Hichilema’s praise for the industrial peace Zambia continues to enjoy.

ILO Country Director Wellington Chibebe urged stakeholders to invest in skills development and workplace innovation, warning that Zambia’s economic future hinges on how well employers and government align efforts to prepare citizens for a rapidly evolving job market.

Zambia Federation of Employers (ZFE) President Myra Ngoma echoed the call for industry-driven training, emphasizing the need to align education systems with real economic demands.

“We are challenged to create more jobs, improve productivity, and ensure our workforce remains skilled and globally competitive,” Ngoma said.

Meanwhile, Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) President Blake Mulala raised concerns over abuse and mistreatment of workers, particularly in the hospitality sector, citing reports of verbal abuse and intimidation at two resorts. He urged the Ministry to investigate and uphold the dignity and rights of workers.