The Malawi Government and the European Union (EU) have signed a 55 million euro (about K45 billion) financing agreement to implement Zantchito Programme or skills for jobs.
Speaking during the signing ceremony in Lilongwe on Wednesday, Minister of Finance Felix Mlusu is quoted in a statement as having said that the programme is aimed at satisfying the economy’s need for skilled professionals.
He said it will also provide decent jobs and self-employment opportunities for young technical and vocational education and training (Tvet) graduates and entrepreneurs, particularly women.
Mlusu thanked the EU for the money to implement the programme which runs for seven years, focusing on skills development and entrepreneurship.
On his part, EU chargé d’affaires Ivo Hoefkens, said: “With this action, the EU contributes to the government’s plan to create one million jobs.”
He said the initiative brings together the ministries of Labour and Industry to improve workforce qualifications and access of Tvet graduates to employment.
The programme, according to the statement, seeks to enhance the delivery of business support services to entrepreneurs, facilitate their access to affordable finance, improving the business operating environment and the perception of entrepreneurship. The statement said following up on the Africa-Europe Alliance, the programme will invest in education and skills and strengthen the business environment.
