Skills Training
Skills for Life training began in 1989 at Nyangombe.
From the beginnings of Nyangombe Christian Training Centre (NCTC), there has been a strong emphasis of skills training for the Lunda people.
Our motto is ‘the pursuit of excellence’ and this goal in training is always in focus. Trainee builders must excel as do trainee carpenters or trainee mechanics and metal fabricators. We keep standards high throughout the training period and this in turn gives trainees confidence to either set up their own business on graduating or in finding employment. Many past trainees today hold responsible positions in Zambia’s mining sector which reflects back to their high standard of training.
NCTC has benefited over many years from Brass Tacks UK sending master tradesmen such as Colin Breeze and Rob Woodhouse who visit annually to work alongside trainers and trainees. This helps upgrade our own resident trainers in skills and use of modern tools.
Carpentry & Joinery
Young men are trained in carpentry and joinery under their dedicated trainer, Mr. Charles Sachikanda. The students learn to create a wide variety of products including furniture and doors, to the highest standard.
These skills enable them to make a living when they return to their villages or help them find employment in the local area or with companies further afield.
Dress-Making & Design
Women are trained in dress-making and design by Mr. Crispin Mbanza. This allows them to make an income for their families by making and selling clothes, bags and other garments. This incomes ensures they can buy the food they need as well as ensuring an education for their children.
Steel Fabrication, Welding & Mechanics
Steel fabrication, welding & mechanics are highly sought after skills, especially in the mines in Zambia. Expert trainer, Mr. Jonathan Mwanauta lead this department and once he judges his students have reached the necessary standard they go to Mechanics for Africa to complete a City of Guilds London qualification in mechanics. This training enables them to secure excellent jobs that ensure they can provide for their families back in the villages.
Building & Construction
Young men are trained to be skilled builders during their time at Nyangombe. They are trained by the dedicated Mr. Moses Chipoya. Their training enables them to build safe, secure housing for themselves and their families as well as giving them the experience and skills they need to secure a job or build structures for others. All the buildings at Nyangombe (nearly 90!) are built by the students under supervision of their trainers.
Graduation!
Tools of the Trade
Students from Nyangombe Christian Training Centre receive a complete set of tools after they complete their course to enable them to immediately begin earning a living as soon as they return to their villages.
We are incredibly grateful to the generous suppliers of these trainee tools: Tools with a Mission, Colin Breeze, Ian Harland, Lurgan Men’s Fellowship, Rob Woodhouse, Hope Canada and Marshal McGee. Thank you!
The Graduation Ceremony held in the main hall at Nyangombe.