Online Venture Creation Course for Youth Initiated by Zambia to Boost Empowerment
Empowering the Youth: Zambia Launches Online Entrepreneurship Training Program
Zambia's Ministry of Technology and Science has launched an 8-week online entrepreneurship training program in August 2025, aimed at empowering the nation's youth with practical, market-oriented skills in business development [1][2].
Program Details
The curriculum of this course covers essential topics such as idea development, business planning, digital marketing strategies, and financial management. The program is designed for self-paced learning, with physical entrepreneurial hubs available for peer learning, networking, and problem-solving [1][2].
Duration and Objectives
The course duration spans over 8 weeks. The objectives of this program include equipping young Zambians with practical entrepreneurship skills to create jobs and foster socio-economic development. It also aims to provide knowledge and tools to help youth shape their futures and contribute to Zambia’s economic transformation [1][2].
Target Audience and Alignment
The program targets youth across all 10 provinces of Zambia, selecting 100 students from 20 TEVET and higher learning institutions. It aligns with national policies like the National Youth Policy, Vision 2030, SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), and the African Union Agenda 2063 for continental development [1].
Addressing the Needs of Youth Unemployment
The training program is designed to address youth unemployment, estimated between 17% and 20%, and the predominance of youths working informally without adequate skills or market access [1][2]. Over 90% of young entrepreneurs in Zambia operate in the informal sector without access to skills, finance, or markets. This program aims to equip young Zambians with the skills and mindset necessary to transition from informal sector entrepreneurship to more formalized, sustainable businesses [1][2].
Recognition and Support
Upon completion, graduates will receive a recognized qualification under the TEVET framework, endorsed by both the government and industry. The program also provides mentorship, access to finance (such as through the Citizen Economic Empowerment Fund), and link participants to business incubation to ensure meaningful impact [1][2].
Notable Quotes
Permanent Secretary Eng. Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu described the program as a timely intervention, stating, "This program is a significant step towards empowering our youth with the practical skills they need to create jobs and contribute to Zambia's socio-economic development" [1]. Dr. Habeenzu expressed gratitude to the Embassy of Finland, Omnia Education Partnerships, and TEVET institutions for their role in making the program possible [1].
[1] Ministry of Technology and Science press release, August 2025. [2] Zambia Daily News article, August 2025.
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