28 August 2024
WorldSkills Zambia gears up for WorldSkills Africa Livingstone 2025
Preparation is underway for WorldSkills Zambia to host the largest skills Competition on the African continent, aiming to transform Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and inspire a new generation of skilled professionals.
Ever since the announcement in September 2023 that WorldSkills Zambia would host the next WorldSkills Africa competition, preparations have been taking shape which aim to transform the future of skills development in the region.
Taking place from 7 to 12 April 2025, WorldSkills Africa Livingstone 2025 promises to leave a lasting impact on Zambia, Africa, and the global WorldSkills community, with goals extending far beyond the Competition itself.
The event will showcase 20 skill competitions that reflect both continental demands and Zambia’s national development priorities, crucial for driving economic growth in sectors like agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and tourism.
Championing the talent of skilled young people is top priority, alongside building capacity across the continent. Cleophas Takaiza, Official Delegate for WorldSkills Zambia, says, “Beyond championing the Medalists, our objective is to build capacity among trainers who will be preparing the Competitors, and by enhancing the skills of our trainers, we are effectively strengthening our entire training system.”
This focus on long-term impact is evident in every aspect of the event’s planning. The Competition will take place at the Livingstone Institute of Business and Engineering Studies (LIBES), with the aim of establishing it as a Centre of Excellence for future initiatives.
The preparation itself is designed to leave a lasting legacy. As Cleophas explains, “Preparing for WorldSkills Africa Livingstone 2025 not only boosts trainees’ confidence but also prepares them mentally for challenges beyond the Competition. Students will be exposed to high standards, knowing they will compete with peers from across Africa.”
The vision extends beyond the Competition floor. Cleophas explains, “The Competition will be rigorous, but we’re also organizing excursions to showcase Zambia’s unique attractions, including the beauty of Livingstone and Victoria Falls.” This holistic approach aims to create a memorable experience for all participants while promoting Zambia as a destination.
WorldSkills Africa Livingstone 2025 is already changing perceptions of TVET across Zambia. For World Youth Skills Day 2024, WorldSkills Zambia hosted a skills exhibition that gave young people hands-on experience in various skill areas and connected them with TVET graduates and entrepreneurs. This initiative, part of a broader effort to “change perceptions about skills training among the youth,” demonstrates how WorldSkills Africa Livingstone 2025 is inspiring action well before the event itself.
As the Competition approaches, preparations are intensifying. The Minister of Technology and Science is leading efforts to mobilize industry support, key to future-proofing skills and bridging current training with the industry needs of tomorrow. A proposed committee of ministers will provide policy guidance, and collaboration with educators aligns training programmes with WorldSkills Occupational Standards. Partnerships with media outlets are already raising public awareness through dedicated radio and television programmes.
Cleophas explains, “Through these collaborative efforts and strategic preparations, we are committed to delivering a successful WorldSkills Africa Livingstone 2025 that not only showcases WorldSkills Zambia’s capabilities but also fosters regional cooperation and skills development across Africa.”
The legacy of WorldSkills Africa Livingstone 2025 will be measured not only in medals won, but also in transformed educational systems, strengthened industries, and inspired young people across the African continent.