By Salome Gangire
Neno, September 10, Mana: District Commissioner (DC) for Neno, Rosemary Nawasha, has said Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills are crucial to the youth for them to thrive in today’s digital era.
She was speaking Monday at Neno Integrated Youth Development Center (NIYDC) during a graduation ceremony of 32 youths who graduated after undergoing an ICT course at the institution held under the theme "From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for the Achievement of Agenda 2063".
Nawasha said in this digitalization era, ICT skills are an indispensable asset, therefore, she encouraged the youths to build their digital competence.
"The Neno Integrated Youth Development Center is becoming a hub for ICT skill development providing invaluable training to our young people. The skills you acquire here will enable you to compete in the global job market and contribute to the realization of Agenda 2063,” Nawasha said.
She therefore urged more youth in Neno to seize the opportunities by taking advantage of the institution and develop their ICT skills.
Centre Manager for NIYCD who is also the District Youth Officer, Ian Sukali appealed council and other organizations in the district to employ youths, particularly in roles such as data entry and digital management.
“Our mission is to provide youth with ICT skills that are practical and relevant to the job market. These graduates now possess the tools to excel in various sectors and we hope local companies will provide them with opportunities to apply their skills,” Sukali said.
Sukali also disclosed that the centre will soon start issuing Technical Entrepreneurial and Vocational Education and Training (TEVETA) certificates to the graduates.
One of the graduates, Paul Clifford said the training will help him in his future endeavors.
"The skills I have gained here will be invaluable as I move on to tertiary education. The world is going digital, and I feel ready to meet the challenges ahead," Clifford stated.
Group Village Head Donda also praised NIYDC for its impact in the district, noting the centre has transformed lives through digital education.
"It is pleasing to see the centre producing not only graduates but also tutors who are products of this institution. The centre’s influence on our youth is visible, and it’s making a real difference in our community," he said.
Neno Integrated Youth Development Center (NIYDC) was opened by President Lazaruus Chakwera on 19th July 2022.
