Kitwe Vocational Training Centre bridges the skills gap in priority industry sectors, transforming lives and driving national progress
Bridging the gap between education and employment through practical skills training
In Zambia, youth unemployment remains a significant challenge, with 19.9% of young people aged 15-35 unemployed.
Despite the demand for skilled labour, only 10% of Zambia's youth have access to quality Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), leaving many unprepared for meaningful employment.
The skills gap is particularly acute in key sectors like mining, transport and construction, where a shortage of trained professionals hampers industry growth and Zambia's sustainable development.
Watch: Skills Training in Action
Youth Unemployment Rate
Ages 15-35
Access to Quality TVET
Limited opportunities
Women in Technical Fields
Global average
Transforming lives through quality vocational education and industry-relevant training
In 2021, the Government of Zambia and UNIDO joined forces in a public-private development partnership to improve the Kitwe Vocational Training Centre (KVTC), with the aim of improving vocational training and creating job opportunities for young Zambians.
The academy focuses on the transport and heavy equipment sectors, developing a skilled workforce through a modern training facility equipped with advanced workshops and tools.
Phase I established a center of excellence, training over 600 students and significantly increasing female enrollment. In September 2019, KVTC expanded to include the commercial transport sector.
Students learning to operate and maintain heavy machinery
Hands-on training in vehicle maintenance and repair
Modern vocational learning facilities
Collaborative learning environment
Government of Japan
JICA International
Hitachi Group
UNIDO
Watch our training programs, success stories, and impact in action
Workshop Training Session
Student Success Stories
KVTC Campus Tour
A visual journey through our training programs and success stories
Heavy Equipment Operator
"KVTC gave me the skills and confidence to enter a male-dominated field. I'm now employed at a mining company earning a good salary."
Automotive Technician
"After completing KVTC's automotive program, I started my own repair shop. I now employ 3 other graduates from the program."
Welding Specialist
"As one of the few female welders in Zambia, I'm proud to show that women can excel in technical fields. KVTC changed my life."
Transforming lives through vocational training and employment opportunities
Students trained
Female enrollment
Trainers trained
Equipment units
Heavy equipment industry training exceeding target of 420 youth
Students trained
Female enrollment
Trainers trained
VTC Centers
Transport industry training exceeding target of 70,000 youth
Total Students Trained
Average % Employment Rate
Total Trainers Trained
Female Graduates Empowered
Watch: Graduates in the Workforce
See how KVTC graduates are making an impact
Graduate Satisfaction
Skills Retention
Partnership established between Government of Zambia and UNIDO in 2021.
Training over 1000+ students with significant increase in female enrollment. Facilities upgraded with modern equipment.
Implementation of digital classrooms and online learning resources for enhanced training delivery.
Expansion of training programs to include emerging technologies and industry 4.0 skills.
KVTC II concludes with expected impact of training thousands of Zambian youth for employment in priority sectors.
KVTC: A Decade of Impact
Watch our journey from 2015 to 2025
Kitwe Vocational Training Centre
Kitwe, Zambia
Latest updates and success stories
Inspiring stories from students and graduates
Download detailed project information
Watch our comprehensive overview video to see how KVTC is transforming lives in Zambia.