Explore how KITWE VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE-KVTC bridges the skills gap in priority industry sectors, transforming lives and driving national progress
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
In 2016, the government of Zambia, Sida, Volvo Group and UNIDO joined forces in a public-private development partnership to establish the Zambian Industrial Training Academy (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, KITWE VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE-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 digital learning facilities
Government of Sweden
Ministry of Technology and Science (MoTS), Zambia
Volvo Group, Volvo Trucks
UNIDO
A visual journey through our training programs and success stories
Heavy Equipment Operator
"KITWE VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE-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 KITWE VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE-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. KITWE VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE-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 450 youth
Watch: Graduates in the Workforce
See how KITWE VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE-KVTC graduates are making an impact
Public-private partnership established between Government of Zambia, Sida, Volvo Group and UNIDO.
Training over 600 students with significant increase in female enrollment. Facilities upgraded with modern equipment.
Expansion to include commercial transport sector. Curriculum updated and infrastructure enhanced.
Digital classrooms established with recording, livestreaming, and content sharing capabilities. 15 staff trained in digital content creation.
KITWE VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE-KVTC II concludes with expected impact of training thousands of Zambian youth for employment in priority sectors.
KITWE VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE-KVTC: A Decade of Impact
Watch our journey from 2015 to 2025
Vienna International Centre
Wagramerstr. 5, Austria
Kitwe Vocation Training Centre-KVTC Headquarters, Vienna
Latest updates and success stories
Inspiring stories from students and graduates
Download detailed project information
Watch our comprehensive overview video to see how Kitwe Vocation Training Centre-KVTC is transforming lives in Zambia.