Mansa, Zambia – Nirvana Operators and Safety Academy, in partnership with Mansa Municipal Council, has been empowering youths in Mansa Central and Bahati constituencies through skills training in driving and machinery operation. The Constituency Development Fund (CDF) has enabled this initiative, which has seen significant success since its introduction in 2022.
Chikobo Derrick, a student from Muchinka Ward in Mansa Central Constituency, shares his inspiring story…
“I chose to acquire a skill in driving because I have always admired truck drivers and wanted to travel outside Zambia. My experience at Nirvana Operators and Safety Academy has been incredible. I couldn’t drive before, but now I can operate a truck. I encourage fellow youths to participate in government programs like CDF and avoid illicit activities,”
Given Kauseni, the only female student from Mansa district in Bahati Constituency, echoes similar sentiments. “I chose to acquire a skill in driving because it’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I encourage fellow females to pursue careers like driving heavy-duty vehicles. We can support ourselves financially just like our male counterparts.”
Nirvana Operators and Safety Academy Managing Director, David Chalwe highlights the institution’s efforts in promoting gender equality and encouraging women participation in skills training. “We need to sensitize our women that they can do it just like men. We encourage women participation for all courses that men can do.”
The institution has seen an increase in student enrollment since the CDF increment in 2022, with 49 students from Mansa Central and 32 from Bahati constituency currently undergoing training. However, this has brought challenges, including over-enrollment and maintaining training standards. To address this, the institution has implemented a calendar system to manage student intake and ensure quality training.
CDF has been hailed as a game changer, enabling the institution to purchase equipment, create jobs, and benefit the community through accommodation and market opportunities.
“CDF is a game changer. We’ve seen how we have struggled in the past, but this time now we are able to even afford to buy equipment that we never used to have some time back.”
