MINISTRY of Science, Trade and Vocational Training Permanent Secretary Dr Buleti Nsemukila has said that government has set aside more than K2 billion for construction and rehabilitation of hostels at Kabwe Trades Training Institute (KTTI).
Mr. Nsemukila disclosed this in Kabwe today after a tour of the institute.
He however expressed worry at the failure by the contractor to finish the works in time.
“These hostels have been left for a long time without rehabilitation and as government we are concerned about the situation and making very effort to build more hostels for the students,” he said.
Dr Nsemukila said he was particularly happy that female participation in vocational courses at the institution had increased and also encouraged more women to enroll at the institute.
He challenged KTTI board to come up with a strategy to open up a shop in town where they would be able to market their products to the people as well as small-scale farmers such as hammer mills, which the institute was making.
Dr Nsemukila further encouraged the management to develop entrepreneurship skills to help students to come up with their own companies, which will contribute, to the growth of the economy.
He also challenged KTTI not to be dependent on government but to utilise skills of the students and lecturers to make money for the institute.
And KTTI Principal Mr Sayila also said he was not happy with the pace the contractor, Sokontwe Construction Company, was taking in completing the rehabilitation works of hostels at the institution.
He said this has forced management to look for alternative accommodation for the students.
Mr Sayila said the contract that is running from October 2007 to May 2008 to construct ten, two story hostels, may not be completed in the stipulated time frame.
He said the situation has forced the management board to come up with makeshift arrangements for the students.
It’s heartening to learn that the new minister, Dr. Nsemukila, has released funds to upgrade infrastructure at kabwe Trades. That’s a flagship institution which needs to keep the excellent outlook it always potrayed. I taught there for 13 years, and have fond memories of my times there. Mr. Sayila,keep up the good work.
Joe kawimbe