By Sr. Tryness Mulubwa, Lusaka CNCS Hub
A total of 180 students have graduated from Thorn Park and City of Hope Auxilium Skills Training Centre during the institution’s 34th Graduation Ceremony, with the Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training Authority (TEVETA) urging them to use their skills for national development.
Speaking at the ceremony, Guest of Honour and TEVETA Director General Mr. Cleophas Takaiza urged the graduates to embrace lifelong learning, remain resilient and use their practical skills to transform their communities and contribute to national development.
Mr. Takaiza commended the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (Salesian Sisters), management and lecturers for their continued commitment to equipping young people with quality technical and vocational skills.
And Thorn Park Auxilium Principal Sr. Justina Mumanga, a Salesian Sister, urged the graduates to uphold integrity, excellence and service.
She said education should be measured not only by academic achievement but also by how graduates use their knowledge and skills to make a positive difference in society.
Meanwhile, one of the graduates, Mwiza Naniiza, said completing her studies was the fulfilment of a long-held dream despite the challenges she faced.
‘’The journey was very long. At times I thought I wouldn’t make it, but by God’s grace I have,’’ she said.
Ms. Mwiza, who works at Nando’s, said the training she received at Auxilium Skills Training Centre helped her excel in her profession.
She said she was recognised as Nando’s Best Griller in Zambia and has been selected to represent the country at an international competition in Australia.
‘’Without Auxilium Skills Training Centre, I would not be where I am today. I thank the lecturers and the Sisters because they believed in me and equipped me with skills that changed my life,’’ Ms. Mwiza said.
Another graduate, Natasha Tembo, described the graduation as the fulfilment of a three-year dream.
She said the institution helped her discover a passion for culinary arts while building her confidence, communication skills and professionalism.
‘’I never knew I loved cooking until I started this course,’’ she said.
‘’Our lecturers challenged us, tested our skills and taught us how to interact with people professionally. That was when I realised there was nothing I could not do in the kitchen.’’
Ms. Tembo said she hopes to secure employment in the hospitality industry to further develop her skills and advance her career.