MINISTER TOURS LILONGWE TECHNICAL COLLEGE

The Minister of Labour, Skills and Innovation, Honourable Joel Chigona, MP, on 7 November, 2025 visited Lilongwe Technical College on a familiarisation tour and to also appreciate progress on the Skills for a Vibrant Economy (SAVE) project, which includes the construction of new female hostels at the institution.

During the tour of the construction site, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far and commended all stakeholders involved for their dedication and professionalism.

“I am pleased with the pace at which the project is progressing. This initiative will provide safe and modern accommodation for female students, thereby improving their learning environment and promoting access to technical education,” said Chigona.

The Minister underscored Government’s continued commitment to skills development as a key driver of economic growth and youth empowerment.

Executive Director for the TEVET Authority, Elwin Chiwembu Sichiola, highlighted that skilled labour remains the foundation of national development, noting that the TEVET sector continues to provide technical training opportunities for youths who may not pursue traditional university pathways.

“It is through technical and vocational colleges that we can equip young people with market-ready skills essential for the country’s socio-economic transformation,” he said

Director of Technical and Vocational Training in the Ministry of Labour, Skills and Innovation, Richard Chirwa, commended the Minister for taking a hands-on approach in monitoring key education and skills development projects, describing it as a sign of Government’s commitment to translating policy into tangible outcomes.

In his remarks, Principal for Lilongwe Technical College, Suzgika Mvalo, said the new hostels will ease accommodation challenges faced by female students at the institution.

"These hostels will enable more girls to focus on their studies and training, thereby contributing to equitable access to skills development,” said Mvalo.

Upon completion, the project will add 80 additional beds to the college’s residential capacity.

The Skills for a Vibrant Economy (SAVE) Project, is a five-year initiative by the Government of Malawi, co-funded by the World Bank, aimed at improving access to skills development programs for women and vulnerable youth to meet the needs of key economic areas in Malawi.

During the visit, the Minister also took time to interact with staff and students from the college.