25 Aug 2024

Construction Industry Trust Fund (CITF) centre in Khakhea, which commenced in 2022 with a P13 million budget, is expected to be complete by the end of the year.

In an interview, CITF regional coordinator-North, Mr Geoffrey Matswa said to date, most of the works were complete and they were expecting an additional budget for the final touches.

“We have been in talks with the ministry for funds because we had to incur additional costs since we sourced some of the material from as far as Jwaneng and Gaborone,” Mr Matswa said.

He added that following the completion of the accreditation process by the Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA), they expected to enroll the first cohort in Khakhea during the 2025/2026 financial year, alongside similar centres in Phitshane Molopo and Sojwe.

He said even though the enrolment capacity was estimated between 50 and 60, their competency based modular training system allowed for open entry at any given time.

He said once operational, the training centre would initially offer phase one courses in bricklaying and plastering, carpentry and painting, with future prospects to include other programmes such as plumbing, tiling and electrical, among others.

He said the strategic location was not only intended to bring services closer to the communities but also to enhance the local economy.

“The intention is to bring services closer to the people, considering that the nearest vocational training centre from here is in Jwaneng. People from around these areas are likely to face accommodation and transport challenges when enrolled in centres far from their homes, hence the decision to bring such services near. We also anticipate that bringing such a facility here would stimulate economic activity in the district, through accommodation rentals and the informal sector,” he explained.

Subsequently, Mr Matswa implored the local communities to position themselves for the economic opportunities that would emanate from the development in their area.

He further urged them to make use of the free programmes to enhance their skills and transform their lives. ENDS