Institutions offering Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) play a crucial role in providing students with skills that can lead to employment and entrepreneurship opportunities in Lesotho.
This was said by Mr Thabang Mokotjo, the Director of the Technical and Vocational Department under the Ministry of Education and Training, during a graduation ceremony held by Katleho Technical Institute (KTI) in Maseru on Saturday.
A total of 180 students graduated from the institute after successfully completing certificate courses in bricklaying, welding, electrical installation, carpentry, and automotive.
Mokotjo said the world is fast changing and TVET programmes offer skills that enable individuals to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the workplace.
“Colleges offering technical and vocational training play an important role in providing the necessary skills needed by industry,” he noted.
He indicated that the government is struggling to absorb thousands of graduates from tertiary institutions every year, and institutions such as KTI playing an active part in offering hands-on skills that can allow students to create their own employment and also for others.
Mokotjo recalled that some months ago, thousands of youths turned up for a recruitment exercise by the Lesotho Defence Force for a few vacancies available, showing a huge need to create more employment outside the formal sector.
“That’s where institutions like yours come in to support government initiatives. Besides enhancing students’chances of getting jobs, the training you offer in various areas go a long way in equipping them with skills to start their own businesses and contribute to the economy of our country,” he added.
KTI director, Qhotsokoane Makhoana, encouraged the graduands to use their acquired skills to improve their lives and also help Lesotho curb unemployment, which is high among the youth.
Government has emphasized the importance of TVET in its Education Sector Plan (2016-2026), highlighting its role in providing accessible education and improving the quality of teaching and learning environments.
By investing in TVET, Lesotho can develop a skilled workforce, drive economic growth, and reduce poverty, the plan says.
Prime Minister Sam Matekane declared youth unemployment a national disaster some months.
