27/04/2026
A total of 553 students have graduated from the Zantchito project at Ekwendeni Lay Training Centre, marking an important step toward youth empowerment and self-reliance.
The graduates completed training in carpentry, soap making, phone repair, edible horticulture, hairdressing, seed multiplication, tailoring, and other vocational skills designed to help them generate income and build better lives in their homes and communities.
Speaking on behalf of the students, Timothy, the Students’ President, called for continued support to help the graduands turn their new skills into lasting success.
“Skills are only the beginning. We need continued support, mentorship, and access to opportunities so that we can put what we have learned into practice and build a better future for ourselves and our families.”
Guest of Honour, Gilbert Chilinde, TEVETA Board Chairperson, commended the graduates for their determination and encouraged them to use their skills to create jobs and contribute to their communities.
“These young people have shown commitment and resilience. Vocational skills are not just for survival, but for innovation, dignity, and economic transformation.”
Herbert Chidaya, Technical Lead for Humanitarian Affairs at Plan Malawi, said the project is helping young people who dropped out of school to regain hope and build independent futures.
“Zantchito is giving young people a second chance. Through practical skills and hands-on learning, we are helping them to earn income, support their households, and become active contributors to development.”
The Zantchito project is being implemented by Plan International Malawi through Bowe Youth Vocational Training Institute and Ekwendeni Lay Training Centre, with funding from the European Union. The project targets young people who dropped out of school in Kasungu and Mzimba, equipping them with skills to improve their livelihoods and strengthen their future opportunities.
