The Sunday News
Leonard Ncube in Victoria Falls
TERTIARY education institutions have been urged to engage communities in their various activities so that they respond to the needs of the people, enhance skills and prepare citizens to play a part in the national development agenda.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Professor Fanuel Tagwira said this while officially opening the 4th International Research Conference hosted by Bulawayo Polytechnic in Victoria Falls.
The conference, on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) started on Thursday and ended on Friday under the theme: “Lifelong TVET Solutions for Sustainable Development through Community Engagement.”
Academics and researchers from various local universities, polytechnics and vocational training colleges as well as international delegates from University of Venda, University of South Africa and Durban University of Technology attended the conference. Prof Tagwira commended Bulawayo Polytechnic for its dedication to knowledge exchange as the conference had become a significant event, where minds from different backgrounds converge to explore the theme of lifelong solutions on community development through community engagement.
“The theme of lifelong TVET solutions on community development through community engagement is of utmost importance in today’s global scenario. As we face numerous challenges, it is crucial to recognise that communal engagement plays a vital role in finding sustainable solutions. The engagement of individuals and communities in TVET not only strengthens the skills and capacities of individuals but also enhances the development of our communities as a whole.
“Technical and vocational education and training equip individuals with practical skills and knowledge that are essential for their personal growth and the prosperity of their communities. Throughout our lives, we are constantly learning and adapting to new technologies, innovations and practices hence the concept of lifelong TVET solutions becomes even more relevant today as it ensures that people are equipped with the necessary skills throughout their lives, enabling them to stay competent and be actively engaged in the workforce,” said Prof Tagwira.
He said the success of TVET programmes was dependent on community engagement. By involving communities, we foster a sense of ownership and enthusiasm, empowering individuals to actively participate and contribute to their own development.
Through community engagement, he said, TVET institutions become more aware of the specific needs and challenges faced by communities. This allows for the creation of tailored programmes that address these needs, ultimately leading to more sustainable solutions.
Bulawayo Polytechnic is working on community national engagement programmes such as fabricating and installation of balustrades for the student centre at National University of Science and Technology in a US$80 000 deal and the project is in three phases.
It is through Bulawayo Polytechnic that Plumtree Polytechnic and Binga Industrial Training College (BITC) were established following President Mnangagwa’s philosophy of leaving no-one and no place behind. Bulawayo Polytechnic has also helped set business start-ups by young people in line with the Education 5.0.
Some of the consortiums include Mineral Water Bottling Plant (Ithonsi Lamanzi), detergents factory, cosmetology, clothing factory, construction of Sonkwe Primary School block and other projects.
“Moreover, community engagement helps in bridging the gap between academia and the real world. It provides a platform for collaboration where researchers, practitioners, and communities join hands to find innovative solutions to societal problems. By promoting a two-way exchange of knowledge and skills, TVET institutions can create a positive impact not only on individuals but also on the broader community. This engagement can lead to the generation of new ideas, fostering entrepreneurship and stimulating economic growth,” said Prof Tagwira.
He said TVET programmes should be accessible to citizens leveraging on the Second Republic policy for those without formal education to learn and also contribute to the development of the community.
