The Technical, Entrepreneurial, Vocational and Education Training (TEVET) Authority has launched a four month free vocational skills training targeting people in hard to reach areas in Karonga.

Speaking Wednesday during the launch at Iponga Primary School, TEVET Authority Northern Regional Service Centre Manager Joseph Chikopa said 242 trainees from Ngana, Iponga and Mwakaboko which are hard to reach areas in Karonga will get certifcates at the end of the four month training.

"The vocational training which is the first of uts kind in the northern region will provide individuals with marketable skills, enabling them to secure employment or start their own businesses, thereby improving their economic prospects," he added.

Chikopa explained that reaching remote areas with vocational training helps bridge the gap in access to education and job opportunities, promoting inclusivity and equity.

Karonga District Council Vice Chairperson Kings Mvula lauded the initiative saying it will provide employment opportunities to many youths in the district who were trekking to neighboring Tanzania in search of jobs.

"By providing economic opportunities locally, this vocational training will reduce migration from Malawi to Tanzania in the process helping to preserve community structures and social cohesion especially in the areas close to the border here,"said Mvula.

One of the trainees from Ngana, Kenneth Razick said the opportunity will foster self-sufficiency, enabling individuals to take charge of their lives, make informed decisions, and become active contributors to their communities.