Zambia's push to equip youth and workers with practical, industry ready skills is gaining momentum as the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, through the Skills Advisory Committee Secretariat, advances preparations for the pilot National Apprenticeship Programme (NAP).
Anchored under the Ministry of Technology and Science and supported by the European Union through International Labour Organization's Skills Development for Increased Employability Programme (SDEP), the initiative aims to link technical training with real workplace experience across priority sectors.
In recent weeks, the Skills Advisory Committee, together with ILO officials and the project team, has travelled nationwide to engage employers, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, and informal-sector master craft persons ahead of the pilot launch.
The programme aims to place 1,000 apprentices in agriculture, tourism, energy and mining-key sectors identified in Zambia's Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP).
Interest from employers and training institutions remains high, demonstrating strong national commitment to improving productivity, creating jobs and developing a more competitive workforce.
This momentum also aligns with Zambia's broader economic development goals and efforts to improve livelihoods.
In Central Province, Serenje District Agricultural Coordinator Mr. Katumwa Mutande confirmed that 43 commercial farmers, including the Farmers Training Centre, are ready to host apprentices.
"This programme arrives at the right time. Farmers have long faced skills gaps, especially in agriculture," he said.
At Nkumbi International College, Principal Ms. Josephine Chibwe highlighted the college's strategic location in a major farming bloc, noting that many local agribusinesses already employ its graduates in agriculture, livestock and crop production.
In Muchinga Province, Mupika Sericulture Company-a pioneer in Zambia's silk industry-announced it will train 450 workers across its 470 hectare mulberry estate.
Finance Manager Mr. Pride Soko said the training will strengthen the entire silk value chain and expand opportunities in this growing, high value agricultural sector.
In Northern Province, Lukashya Trades Training Institute Principal Mr. Cephas Chitasho said NAP will strengthen long standing workplace training partnerships and ensure training remains practical and aligned to industry needs.
Agro processor Kasama Sugar confirmed it will train 600 workers. Managing Director Mr. Avarian Vedad said the programme will turn informal, on the job learning into structured training that builds competence, confidence and long term career growth.
At Lunzua Hydro Power Station in Mpulungu, ZESCO Station Manager Mr. Steward Mumba praised the programme for helping lower ranking employees gain practical, job relevant skills to address daily operational challenges.
"This programme equips staff with skills that matter-skills that solve real problems and strengthen the company from the ground up," he said.
In the tourism sector, the Tanganyika and Abercorn Tourism Association (TATA) committed to mobilizing host enterprises in Mbala, Mpulungu and surrounding areas.
Vice Chairperson Ms. Susan Chelemu said the programme will give young people much needed hands on experience in lodges, hotels and tourism operations.
In Luapula Province, Permanent Secretary Ms. Prudence Chinama Kangwa welcomed the programme's focus on youth and its extension into the informal sector through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for master craft persons and learners.
ILO SDEP Chief Technical Advisor Mr. Todini Marecha reaffirmed the programme's long term vision: "NAP is designed to build lasting capacity. By training trainers across the country, we ensure every host enterprise can deliver high quality, industry relevant skills."
The NAP continues to gain strong national support, with employers and training institutions ready to host apprentices. As the rollout approaches, the government and the ILO will finalize placements and train workplace mentors.
With EU backing, the programme aims to boost skills, improve productivity and expand job opportunities-helping build a stronger, more competitive workforce for Zambia.
