By Blackson Mkupatira

Chiradzulu, May 30, Mana: Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare, Jean Sendeza, has commended development partners for their continued support towards human capital development in the country.

She made the remarks on Thursday at Magomero Community Development College, where 315 students graduated with diplomas and certificates in fields such as Community Development, Social Work, and Nutrition and Irrigation Operations.

Of the graduating class, 140 students were trained through various scholarship programmes, and these included 17 Early Childhood Development practitioners and 13 nutrition practitioners supported by the World Bank.

Additionally, 40 Social Work students benefited from USAID support, while 70 others were sponsored by the British Council under the VET Toolbox II Project.

Sendeza said the support from partners has improved service delivery in key social sectors across the country.

“Government recognises that human capital development is a key driver of national productivity, and we are proud to have many partners who have played a vital role by providing both financial and technical support,” she said.

Sendeza added that, without such collaboration, government would not have been able to train most of the frontline workers who are currently serving in communities in areas such as nutrition and early childhood development.

The Minister therefore encouraged the graduates to be proactive and innovative as they await employment opportunities, saying that donor resources are dwindling while the number of graduates entering the job market continues to grow each year.

British Council representative, Mabvuto Chilenje expressed pride in the graduates from Chikwawa District who completed training in Farm Tractor Operations and Irrigation Systems Management.

“Our project aims to empower youth along the Shire Valley Transformation Project area with skills that will enable contribute to national food security,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of his fellow graduates, Mwaiwao Zidana expressed gratitude to the government, development partners, families, and all those who provided support throughout their academic journey.

“We are ready to apply the skills we have acquired in our respective fields and contribute meaningfully to the realization of Malawi Vision 2063,” he said.