The Ministry of Labour says there is a need to revise the remuneration for artisans to match the hard work and skills they put into their jobs.

Principal for Lilongwe Technical College, Suzhika Mvalo, who represented the Ministry of Labour, made the remarks on Friday during the presentation of awards to winners of the WorldSkills Regional Competition, organized by TEVETA in Lilongwe.

Mvalo said that for a long time, people have looked down on technical work despite the effort artisans put into their craft.

“It’s high time those with technical skills were paid according to their work. This is why the Ministry is working towards improving remuneration for artisans so that they are fairly rewarded for their contribution,” said Mvalo.

Meanwhile, TEVETA Executive Director Elwin Chiwembu Sichiola said technical education is crucial and beneficial as graduates from technical colleges can easily establish their own businesses.

Sichiola added that if young people are not empowered with technical skills, the country risks creating jobs that will later be filled by expatriates.

“We need to encourage young people to take up technical education right from the grassroots. That’s why we invited secondary school students from within Lilongwe to watch and learn from others,” said Sichiola.

Steven Binosi got position one in brick laying competition and expressed satisfaction with the skills he has so far gotten from Home of Hope technical college in Mchinji.

He said people from his community are also  trusting him with their work because of his skills and advised his fellow young people to grab any technical opportunity which comes their way whole heartdly.

SOS Vocational Centre emerged as the best-performing institution during the competition, with most of its students winning in various trades.

One of the students, Jessca Sefula, walked away with K200,000 after emerging second in the Food Production category. She expressed hope that the skills she is gaining from the course will help her establish her own business.

“I advise my fellow ladies to consider taking technical studies because the skills acquired can change their lives instantly,” she said.

Principal for SOS Vocational Centre, Margaret Mphwiyo, attributed their success to commitment and dedication, saying these values have helped the institution produce well-trained students.

The competition, which took place across all three regions of the country, aimed at showcasing the skills that youths are acquiring from technical colleges.