150,000 Harare Youths to Benefit from ICT Training Initiative

At least 150,000 young people in Harare are set to receive ICT training through the Digitruck and Digital Skills Ambassador Programme, according to Minister of State for Harare Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Charles Tawengwa.

Launched recently by President Mnangagwa, the programme aims to equip communities with digital skills and foster inclusivity in the digital economy.

The first beneficiaries are youths from Mbare, where 68 students graduated with ICT certificates last Friday at the Mbare Renewal Project. The initiative is expected to benefit 10,000 youths in Mbare alone, with no educational prerequisites for enrolment.

Minister Tawengwa reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to improving lives through ICT and announced a mobile digital literacy campaign to expand access nationwide.

“The campaign will bring digital education and support to communities, ensuring inclusivity,” he stated.

A key component of the initiative is the Digi-truck, which will deliver ICT training to remote areas, enhancing digital literacy and access to online services.

Minister Tawengwa also highlighted the programme’s potential to address social challenges such as drug abuse among youths.

Chairperson of the Mbare Renewal Project, Oliver Olembe Vellem, expressed confidence in the initiative, emphasizing its accessibility.

“We anticipate more Mbare youths gaining free ICT knowledge. We have also established an ICT lab for their use,” he said.

Additionally, Mbare Ward 3 Councillor, Simbarashe Chanachimwe, pledged to provide free internet access to residents, further supporting digital education efforts.

The initiative is bringing significant changes to the Mbare community, enabling local youths to develop essential digital skills and participate in the global digital economy.