The Government of the Republic of Zambia, in partnership with the Government of Japan, Hitachi Construction Machinery Zambia, and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), inaugurated a modern Heavy Equipment Operator Training Workshop on 25th March 2026 at Kitwe Vocational Training Centre (KVTC), marking a significant step forward in Zambia’s skills development and industrialisation agenda. 

The facility is part of the Project for Promoting Youth Employment through Construction Equipment Operating Skills Training in Zambia, a multi-stakeholder initiative launched in 2021, to equip young people with demand-driven skills and improve employment outcomes in key sectors such as mining, construction, and infrastructure development. 

The ceremony was officiated by the Copperbelt Provincial Minister, Honourable Elisha Matambo, MP, on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Technology and Science, Mr. Felix C. Mutati, MP. In remarks delivered on behalf of the Minister, the government underscored the importance of investing in skills development: “This occasion marks a decisive step in strengthening Zambia’s human capital. It reflects our commitment to building a skilled, productive, and future-ready workforce capable of driving national development.” He added: “No nation can rise beyond the capacity of its people. A skilled, innovative, and disciplined workforce remains the foundation of sustainable development.” 

Japan’s Ambassador to Zambia, H.E. Mr. Akiteru Mikami, reaffirmed Japan’s continued support: “This initiative will contribute significantly to Zambia’s ambition of increasing copper production to 3 million tonnes by 2031, while equipping young people with practical skills for employment and national development.” 

The USD 4.4 million initiative reflects strong collaboration between government, international partners, and the private sector, combining infrastructure development, curriculum modernization, and institutional capacity building. 

United Nations Zambia Resident Coordinator, Ms. Beatrice Mutali, highlighted the broader social impact: “For the students who will train here, this facility represents a pathway to dignity, decent work, and economic independence, where potential is transformed into productivity.” 

UNIDO Chief Ms. Virpi Stucki emphasized the value of partnerships: “Today’s milestone demonstrates what can be achieved through strong collaboration, empowering youth with skills that benefit individuals, industry, and the nation.” 

Hitachi Construction Machinery Zambia Company President, Mr. Nobuhiko Saito, underscored industry’s role: “Through this partnership, we are opening a gateway of opportunity for Zambia’s youth and strengthening the technical backbone of the nation’s industrial future.” 

As part of its contribution, Hitachi donated a state-of-the-art Dump Truck Simulator, enabling safe, practical, and industry-aligned training. 

In addition, Hitachi Construction Machinery Zambia and KVTC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize long-term collaboration in skills development and future programme expansion.

KVTC Board Chairperson, Reverend Hendie Bwalya described the development as a major institutional milestone: “This facility provides a dynamic environment where learners can acquire skills aligned with industry needs.” 

KVTC Principal Mr. Chrispin Kakoma highlighted the operational transformation: “It will significantly enhance how we train, equipping our students with competencies that meet the expectations of today’s labour market.” 

The new facility increases KVTC’s annual training capacity from approximately 125 to over 300 students, strengthening Zambia’s technical skills base and responsiveness to industry demand. 

Under the TEVET Bursary Scheme, supported students increased from 150 in 2025 to 458 in 2026, due to the high demand from young people in the Copperbelt and neighbouring provinces. Since the Heavy Equipment Operator training program was launched in late 2024, more than 390 trainees, including 30% women, have successfully graduated, with over 1,000 applications received to date. 

TEVETA Director General Mr. Cleophas Takaiza emphasized the national significance: “Through initiatives like this, we are building a skilled, productive, and competitive workforce that can respond to Zambia’s development priorities.” He further announced that KVTC is currently undergoing the process to attain Centre of Excellence status in Heavy Equipment Operation, expected by April 2026, subject to meeting regulatory requirements. 

The programme’s impact was reflected in the testimony of KVTC’s graduate Ms. Nancy Chanda: “This opportunity has changed my life. Skills training opened the door to employment and a better future.” Her journey from training to employment highlights the programme’s success in creating pathways to meaningful livelihoods. https://youtu.be/V70Kb2kun-U?si=rGl0o-GJGRrpVEt- 

The facility aligns with Zambia’s broader development priorities, including strengthening the mining sector, expanding infrastructure, and building a resilient, diversified economy. The government and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to advancing a second phase of the programme, focusing on advanced skills such as equipment maintenance, automation, and emerging technologies. 

The launch of the KVTC Heavy Equipment Operator Training Workshop underscores a shared commitment to empowering Zambia’s youth with practical skills and building a workforce capable of supporting sustained economic growth.