Empowering Youth Through Skills: ZAS Celebrates 2026 Graduates of the Sister Led Youth Empowerment Initiative
15th July 2026
by Samuel Daka
The Zambia Association of Sisterhoods (ZAS), through the Sister Led Youth Empowerment Initiative (SLYEI) with support from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, proudly celebrated the graduation of young women and men from several vocational training centres between March and July 2026.
The graduation ceremonies marked another important milestone in ZAS’ commitment to equipping vulnerable and unemployed youth with practical, market-driven skills that enhance employability, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance.
The institutions that held graduation ceremonies included:
Holy Rosary Skills Centre in Chipapa, managed by the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Rosary;
Mother Marrieta Skills Centre in Matero, managed by the Little Servants of Mary Immaculate;
City of Hope and Thornpark Auxilium Centres, managed by the Salesian Sisters; and
Bauleni Special Needs Project, managed by the Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary.
Graduates successfully completed training in a range of vocational programmes, including:
General Hospitality
Food Production
Agriculture
Tailoring and Fashion Design
Through these programmes, the graduates have gained practical knowledge and hands-on experience that will enable them to pursue meaningful employment, establish their own businesses, and contribute positively to their families and communities.
A particularly significant milestone was recorded at the Bauleni Special Needs Project, where graduates with disabilities and other inclusive learners completed their vocational training. The achievement reflects the institution’s continued commitment to providing inclusive, quality skills development that promotes dignity, independence, entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods for all learners.
Speaking during the various graduation ceremonies, the leadership of the four institutions expressed their sincere appreciation to the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation and the Zambia Association of Sisterhoods for their continued partnership and unwavering support. They noted that the investment in youth skills development continues to transform lives, strengthen communities, and create opportunities for young people to build brighter futures.
As these graduates embark on the next chapter of their journeys, they carry with them not only technical skills but also the confidence, resilience, and values needed to become productive citizens and agents of positive change in their communities.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026! ZAS celebrates your achievement and wishes you every success as you put your knowledge and skills into practice to build better lives and stronger communities.
