Government accelerates rollout of training equipment to boost technical education
By Michael Martin//MALAWI
Government has intensified efforts to strengthen technical and vocational education with the accelerated distribution of machinery and training equipment to public technical colleges.
The Minister of Labour, Skills and Innovation, Honourable Joel Chigona, on Thursday 29th January 2025 inspected the ongoing equipment distribution exercise at the Trade Testing Centre in Lilongwe.
The inspection formed part of Government’s broader commitment to ensuring that technical institutions are adequately resourced to deliver quality, practical skills training.
During the visit, the Minister observed various machines and tools earmarked for different technical colleges across the country.
The equipment includes transformers, industrial engines, drilling machines, plumbing tools, compressors, sawing machines, profile cutting machines, heavy duty juice processing machines and assorted toolboxes.
These resources are intended to significantly enhance hands on training for students pursuing technical and vocational courses.
Minister Chigona expressed concern over delays in distributing some of the equipment and issued a firm directive for immediate completion of the process.
He instructed officials to ensure that all remaining machinery is delivered to beneficiary colleges without further delay.
“The equipment must reach institutions promptly so that learners start benefiting as soon as possible,” said Chigona.
He emphasized that timely access to modern equipment is critical in preparing students with practical skills that meet industry needs.
The Minister further noted that Government is determined to align technical education with labour market demands to support national development.
As part of the distribution exercise, Mzuzu Technical College collected its allocated machinery from the Trade Testing Centre during the inspection.
Deputy Principal of Mzuzu Technical College, Lawrence Chipale, described the development as a major milestone for skills training at the institution.
Chipale said the lack of adequate machinery had previously limited the college’s ability to deliver comprehensive practical training.
“The machines we have collected today are a big boost and will greatly enhance our capacity to train students with relevant, hands-on skills,” he said.
He added that the new equipment will help bridge the skills gap by producing artisans who are fully prepared for the labour market.
Chipale emphasized that technical colleges place strong emphasis on practical learning, which is essential for industry readiness.
“At technical colleges, hands-on training is our priority, and these machines are adding real value to what we do,” he said.
The move is aimed at expanding access to skills development opportunities across the country, particularly at the community level.
So far, Salima, Soche, Nasawa, Lilongwe and Namitete technical colleges have already received and collected their equipment.
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