Zambia has strengthened its efforts to build a skilled workforce for the mining and gemstone industry with the handover of modern gemmological equipment to the Gemstone Processing and Lapidary Training Centre (GPLTC) in Ndola.
The investment is expected to improve training, promote value addition, and help prepare learners for opportunities across the gemstone value chain.
The equipment was provided by the International Labour Organization (ILO) through the European Union-funded Skills Development for Increased Employability Programme (SDEP), which supports Zambia's transition to Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET).
Speaking at the handover ceremony, ILO Country Office Director for Zambia and Malawi, Mr. Wellington Chibebe, said skills development remains critical to creating decent jobs, promoting inclusive economic growth, and supporting sustainable development.
"Skills development is one of the strongest drivers of decent work and economic transformation. Through SDEP, we are supporting Zambia's transition to Competency-Based Education and Training while strengthening institutions such as GPLTC to deliver high-quality, industry-responsive training," said Mr. Chibebe.
He noted that the ILO had provided gemmological equipment worth US$29,816, while two GPLTC instructors received specialised training in gemstone identification and coloured gemstone grading valued at US$16,189, bringing the total support package to US$46,005.
"This investment is not only about equipment. It is about building the skills, knowledge and capacity needed to ensure that Zambia's gemstone sector creates more jobs, generates more value, and remains competitive," he said.
He added that the intervention will be complemented by the development of a CBET Diploma in Gemmology curriculum, which is expected to be launched in July 2026.
Representing the European Union Delegation to Zambia, Ms. Paola Gosparini commended the strong partnership between government, employers, workers' organisations, training institutions and development partners in advancing skills development.
"The handover of this modern equipment demonstrates our shared commitment to strengthening Zambia's skills ecosystem and developing an industry-led workforce that can respond to the evolving needs of the mining and gemstone sector," said Ms. Gosparini.
She said investments in skills development remain essential for improving employability and supporting sustainable economic growth.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Mr. Zechariah Luhanga, said the equipment will significantly enhance GPLTC's capacity to provide practical, industry-oriented training.
"Learners will now have access to modern equipment that will help them acquire specialised competencies in gemstone identification, grading, cutting and polishing. These skills are essential for strengthening Zambia's mining and gemstone value chains," Mr. Luhanga said.
Delivering the keynote address, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Technology and Science, Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, described the handover as more than a transfer of equipment.
"Today's handover represents far more than the delivery of equipment. It is a strategic investment in Zambia's human capital, industrial competitiveness and value-addition agenda," Dr. Habeenzu said.
He reaffirmed Government's commitment to promoting skills development, innovation and industrialisation under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema.
"As one of the world's leading producers of emeralds, Zambia has a unique opportunity to increase the value derived from its gemstone resources. Strengthening skills in gemmology, grading, cutting, polishing and certification will create jobs, promote entrepreneurship and increase participation in global value chains," Dr. Habeenzu said.
Zambia Federation of Employers (ZFE) Executive Director, Mr. Harrington Chibanda, emphasized the importance of closer collaboration between industry and training institutions.
"Employers must play an active role in apprenticeships, internships, industrial attachments and curriculum development. Strong industry participation is essential to ensuring that graduates possess the skills required in today's workplace," said Mr. Chibanda.
He called on employers in the mining and gemstone sector to support workplace learning opportunities and skills development initiatives.
Meanwhile, Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) Director for Public Relations and International Relations, Mr. Kabika Kakunta, welcomed the investment, noting that quality training and access to modern technology are critical for improving employability and productivity.
"Investment in skills development is an investment in people. Modern training facilities and technology help workers acquire relevant competencies, improve their employment prospects and contribute more effectively to economic development," Mr. Kakunta said.
He stressed the need for continued cooperation among government, employers, workers' organisations and development partners.
