Organisational Structure

Organization Structure

The Chikowa Youth Development Centre operates within a clear, purposeful organizational framework designed to serve our mission of empowering Zambian youth through quality technical education and values-based formation. Our structure reflects our commitment to accountability, efficient decision-making, and the dignity of every team member—from leadership to support staff.

Governance and Leadership

CYDC operates under the proprietorship of the Roman Catholic Church through the Bishop of Chipata Diocese and is managed by the Comboni Missionaries. Our Board of Governors provides strategic oversight and stewardship, ensuring the centre remains true to its mission while responding to the needs of our community. The Vice Principal, Freddie H. Bernardino, leads the day-to-day operations, working alongside key administrative and departmental heads to ensure quality training delivery and institutional sustainability.

Departmental Organization

Our structure reflects our core training areas, each led by dedicated Head of Department (HOD) who bring expertise and passion to their fields. The centre operates specialized departments—Automotive Engineering, General Agriculture, Food Production & Catering, Fashion Design & Textile Technology, and Bricklaying & Masonry—each with qualified instructors committed to hands-on skill development. These departments are supported by administrative and support staff including procurement, accounting, security, maintenance, and food preparation roles. This integration ensures that every corner of CYDC operates with the same excellence and values we teach our students.

Supporting Functions

The Administrative Secretary and Human Resources Manager ensure that our institutional systems serve people well—from student enrollment to staff development and record-keeping. The Procurement Officer works transparently to source materials and equipment that meet our teaching standards. Supporting staff in security, maintenance, cooking, and general operations create the conducive, safe, and welcoming environment essential for learning and community dignity. As part of our strategic plan, we are strengthening our organizational clarity by developing clearer policies, expanding roles, and moving toward greater transparency and inclusive governance where student voices contribute to institutional decisions.​

A Living Structure

This organizational design is not rigid but responsive. We recognize that effective structures serve people and mission rather than the reverse. Our teams work across departments—instructors support student enterprises, administrators facilitate community partnerships, and maintenance staff enable safe learning environments. By 2030, we aim to enhance this structure through clearer role definitions, distributed decision-making, and expanded opportunities for both staff professional growth and student leadership, ensuring CYDC remains a centre of excellence rooted in teamwork, accountability, and shared purpose.