July 30, 2026
The construction sector in Zambia suffers from a serious skills shortage.
Employers are struggling to find qualified workers at all levels. This creates significant opportunities for young people to secure employment and build successful careers. Yet many lack access to the training and support needed to take advantage of these opportunities. We provide construction skills training to young men and women. With their new skills, they are able to earn a living and provide for their families.
Training into Work
We look to train young people who have had little education, but with a genuine interest and desire to learn new skills. We have designed and developed a range of bespoke, entry-level construction training courses. All courses include:
- Life skills: Improved confidence, communication skills, numeracy and teamwork helps to equip our trainees for the world of work. Research shows that with such skills, they will achieve and sustain higher incomes
- Construction skills: Theoretical and practical learning using our bespoke curriculum
- Work placement: At least three months experience on construction projects helping to ensure that trainees are work ready. Experience is gained either with a construction company or through one of our current building projects
Women in construction
Build It has a strong track record of promoting the participation of women in our construction training courses.
On average, 25% of our trainees are women. We want to see a greater gender shift. To build greater momentum for changing attitudes and supporting the progression of women in the construction sector.
Work placements
Work placements are a key part of our construction training. They give our young trainees the opportunity to gain real on-site experience, understand the realities of working in construction, and start building valuable industry connections.
We are always looking for contractors to support trainees through work placements, and for employers seeking motivated, job‑ready construction graduates.
Advocacy
Real change happens when systems change.
Alongside delivering training and building community infrastructure, we advocate for the systemic changes needed to create a more inclusive construction sector.
By sharing evidence, building partnerships and influencing decision-makers, we work to remove barriers to employment and help more young men and women access meaningful careers.
