In line with its purpose of creating a better future for all its stakeholders, Zimplats recently supported the successful hosting of the second Graduation and Prize-Giving Ceremony for Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) in Mashonaland West Province.
The event held at Mashayamombe VTC in Mhondoro-Ngezi saw about 300 students from VTCs across the province graduating at the ceremony presided over by the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Honourable Tino Machakaire.
Zimplats was among the partners commended for their contribution to the event. The company sponsored a range of practical, trade-ready tools awarded to top-performing students across key technical disciplines. Each prize was selected to help the recipients immediately apply their skills in real work environments – from construction, engineering, metal fabrication, carpentry, and plumbing, to sewing and garment creation.
By equipping students with the essential tools of their trade, such as sewing machines, construction tools, electrical testing equipment, welding devices and carpentry essentials – Zimplats ensured that the awards were not only symbolic, but a meaningful step toward supporting young artisans as they begin their careers.
Graduates were drawn from seven VTCs: Norton, Mhondoro-Ngezi, Chinhoyi, Magunje, Kadoma, Mt Hampden and Murombedzi.
The ceremony was held under the theme: “Innovate, digitalise, and enterprise: training and skills development, combating drug and substance abuse.”
In his keynote address, Minister Machakaire encouraged the graduates to embrace their future with confidence and purpose.
“As you embark on the next chapter of your lives, do so with courage, passion and purpose. The path may not always be easy, but you possess the skills, knowledge and determination to succeed.
You are the builders of a brighter tomorrow. May your hands create, your minds innovate, and your hearts remain steadfast in service to your communities and your country,” he said.
The Minister also shared a message on Facebook, celebrating the graduates and emphasising that skills, determination and hard work open doors to opportunity and empowerment.
Zimplats was delighted to be invited as a partner at the second Mashonaland West VTC Graduation and Prize Giving Ceremony. The company believes that true empowerment begins with education and skills. Supporting vocational training is therefore not merely an act of Corporate Social Responsibility but an investment in the future of the youth in our country..
VTCs play a critical role in this vision. They nurture practical skills that enable employment, entrepreneurship and self-reliance. Skilled individuals build strong communities..
“We are proud to have sponsored six of the 10 awards presented at the graduation and prize giving ceremony — a reflection of our belief in recognising excellence and encouraging lifelong learning,” remarked Zimplats’ Head of Corporate Affairs, Mrs Busi Chindove, while also reaffirming the company’s commitment.
“Our partnership with institutions such as Mashayamombe VTC, and earlier with Murombedzi VTC — which we supported with state-of-the-art motor mechanics equipment — demonstrates our ongoing commitment to modern, industry-relevant training.
“The skills developed at these VTCs — in engineering, mechanics, agriculture, construction and technology — are the engines of national progress. They create jobs, drive innovation and inspire self-employment. Above all, they align with our commitment to create a better future for our stakeholders through the metals we produce and the way in which we do business.. They remind us that development flows from people — skilled, motivated and empowered,” added Mrs Chindove.
To all graduates: congratulations. Your hard work has brought you this far. The future is yours — build it boldly, lead with integrity and uplift your communities.
Mr Austin Chigama (left), who is also a Zimplats employee, pictured with his son, Takudzwa (centre), who graduated during the ceremony. Mr Chigama’s brother, Shepherd (right), also attended the event to offer moral support.
Hon Machakaire had a busy day congratulating all 300 graduating students.
Parents using their mobile phones to capture memorable moments of their graduating children.
Some of the graduating students.