By Burnett Munthali
Likoma, Malawi – Vocational training at Likoma Community Technical College is transforming lives by empowering individuals with essential skills, particularly in tailoring. According to Shalom Nthala, an instructor at the institution, the training offers significant benefits by fostering self-reliance and enabling personal and economic advancement. Notably, women have shown the most interest in these opportunities, highlighting the program’s role in promoting gender inclusivity in skill development.
Nthala has urged parents to abandon the misconception that vocational skills such as tailoring are unproductive. Instead, he emphasized that parents should encourage their children to take advantage of such opportunities, as these skills can open doors to self-sustainability and long-term success.
“The trainees have an advantage here because Likoma, being surrounded by water, attracts many tourists. Once they complete their training and start tailoring businesses, they can tap into a market driven by local and international visitors, making it easier to find customers for their products,” Nthala explained.
He further highlighted that the influx of tourists, including expatriates, presents a unique opportunity for the students. “Tourists come here regularly, and this creates a chance for them to purchase tailored goods. At the end of the day, our trainees can earn money to support themselves,” he added.
One of the students, Joana Kaunda, who recently enrolled in the tailoring program, expressed optimism about her future. Kaunda believes the skills she is learning will not only help her meet her personal needs but also enable her to support her family. She shared her aspirations, stating, “It is my dream that one day, I will establish a successful tailoring business.”
The training programs at Likoma Community Technical College underscore the importance of vocational skills in fostering economic independence and community development. With the support of institutions like this, individuals are gaining the tools they need to improve their livelihoods while contributing to the local economy.
- Dalitso Kabambe Promises Economic Revival if Elected Under UTM
- Limpopo FM questions ballot papers security at the Airport
- AFORD condemns brutal attack on Chihana,s convoy in Kasungu
- Kalindo says UTM is destroying Kabambe’s popularity
- Former President Joyce Banda to Lead Presidential Youth Dialogue Ahead of 2025 Elections
- Dalitso Kabambe Takes Campaign Trail to Chitipa and Karonga
- Catholic University Student Dies by Suicide After Relationship Dispute
- MCP Shadow Councillor Urges Communities to Vote for Development Champion Hon. Mkaka
- AFORD President Enoch Chihana Survives Brutal Convoy Attack in Kasungu
- Road to September 16: Bees Disrupt UDF Rally at Nyambadwe School Grounds
- Peter Mutharika Shows Strength as He Kicks Off whistle-stops in Central Region
- Peter Mutharika Takes Blue Alliance Campaign to Salima and Dedza
- Enoch Chihana Hails Education as Key to Malawi’s Future
- Angela Muluzi Backs Atupele Muluzi Ahead of 16 September Elections
- Sir Paul Banda: Malawi’s Music Legend Deserves Better Care
- Rumphi Stadium Dubbed ‘Gologota’ Amid Poor Conditions
- Wolves Academy Sweep 2025 Under-18 Volleyball Tournament
- Prophet Shepherd Bushiri Pledges to Sponsor Dedza Dynamos