Govt’s skills audit to address workforce gaps

By Jerry Chifamba

The Government is currently conducting a national skills audit to identify and fill critical workforce gaps, to enhance efficiency across various sectors, Skills Audit and Development Minister Professor Paul Mavima has said.

Professor Mavima was speaking during his ministry’s week-long strategic workshop in Kwekwe.

He said the initiative seeks to evaluate the skills of employees and develop a robust human capital framework that meets national needs.

Professor Paul Mavima said significant progress has been made in assessing the quality of skills throughout the country.

“We have reached out to every sector of the economy, hosting 39 consultation meetings to engage stakeholders and gather insights,” he said.

“The findings highlight existing skill deficiencies, corroborating data collected in 2018. To tackle these gaps, the ministry is designing a targeted scholarship program that will prioritize funding in areas where the nation lacks expertise.

“We have analysed all scholarship arrangements in the country, and we now have a comprehensive report.”

The next phase of the audit is scheduled to commence next year. The ministry has indicated the need for sufficient resources to ensure the timely completion of the audit.