On this Youth Day, we take a moment to reflect on the invaluable role that young people play in shaping the future of our nation. The youth are the backbone of Zimbabwe, and their energy, creativity, and ambition must be harnessed for sustainable economic growth. However, for them to thrive, we must rethink our approach to education and personal development.
The current education system in Zimbabwe must evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. While academic excellence is important, it is equally critical that our young people are equipped with practical entrepreneurial skills that prepare them for real-world challenges. Education should not be limited to passing exams; it must be a tool that empowers students to create opportunities, build businesses, and drive innovation. The Ministry of Education must introduce courses that instill confidence, resilience, and leadership from an early age. Subjects that foster critical thinking, financial literacy, business management, and problem-solving should be integrated into the curriculum to cultivate a generation that is self-sufficient and forward-thinking.
Beyond traditional academic subjects, young people should actively pursue practical skills that create opportunities for entrepreneurship, employment, and community development. Skills such as plumbing, carpentry, electrical work, roofing, drywall installation, painting, mechanics, farming, information and communication technology (ICT), baking, cooking, fashion design, sewing, graphic design, and beauty therapy (including manicures and hairstyling) are highly valuable. These skills not only offer immediate job opportunities but also empower individuals to start businesses, employ others, and contribute meaningfully to the economy. We must move away from the outdated mindset that only formal employment guarantees success. Entrepreneurship and vocational skills provide alternative, yet equally rewarding, career paths. A young person who learns carpentry or baking can start a business and employ others, contributing to economic growth. With the rise of digital platforms, skills in ICT, graphic design, and social media management can open doors to global opportunities. Farming, whether urban or rural, remains a key pillar of food security and economic empowerment. The key is to embrace self-reliance, innovation, and adaptability in a changing world.
Teachers and lecturers must shift their mindset from merely transferring knowledge to actively building competency in their students. They should see themselves as mentors and guides, equipping learners with the skills they need to navigate the complexities of the modern world. More importantly, students should be given the freedom to explore their interests and talents at an early stage. Career choices should not be imposed upon them but should instead be nurtured based on their aspirations and strengths. Parents and educators should encourage youth to embrace practical skills alongside academic pursuits, ensuring they have multiple pathways to success.
As a nation, we must celebrate the individuality of our youth while reminding them of their responsibility in building Zimbabwe. We must instill a strong sense of identity, pride, and cultural appreciation. Despite the challenges we face as a nation, we must encourage our young people to speak positively about themselves and their country. The spirit of Ubuntu—our deep-rooted African philosophy of interconnectedness, respect, and collective progress—should be embedded in our education system and daily lives. Looking beyond challenges and developing a resilient mindset must be key components of our curriculum. Life will always present obstacles, but the ability to think critically, adapt, and turn challenges into opportunities is what will set our youth apart. We must also give them room to grow, learn from their mistakes, and find their own paths without fear of failure. Failure is not the end; it is a stepping stone to success.
As we celebrate Youth Day, let us commit to creating an environment that supports young people in their journey toward success. Let us invest in mentorship, partnerships, and initiatives that empower them to become job creators rather than job seekers. The future of Zimbabwe lies in the hands of its youth—let’s equip them to lead with vision, integrity, and innovation. To every young person out there: your hands, mind, and creativity are your greatest assets. Use them wisely, learn continuously, and build a future that benefits you, your family, and your country. Zimbabwe needs you!
I also call on leaders in various fields to take it upon themselves to mentor the youth, both through formal and informal platforms, individually and collectively. Together, we can shape Zimbabwe by guiding the next generation, helping them find their purpose, and enabling them to realize their full potential. By working together, we will ensure that Zimbabwe's youth are empowered, ready to take on the world, and equipped to lead our nation towards prosperity.
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