About Us
The idea to establish a technical skills training institute in Solwezi was initiated by the Government of the Republic of Zambia in the mid-1970s, with land allocated for the project. However, development only materialized in 1993 when Solwezi Trades Training Institute (SOTTI) officially opened under the North-Western Provincial Administration, following a request by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Vocational Training (MSTVT).
Since then, SOTTI has held nine graduation ceremonies and produced over 5,000 graduates. Student enrolment has steadily increased—from fewer than 600 in 2021 to about 2,000 in 2025—reflecting the institute’s growing appeal and programme diversification.
The institute offers a wide range of affordable, demand-driven programmes that support national socio-economic development. Notably, enrollment rose sharply in 2016 due to enhanced outreach efforts and the introduction of new programmes, including Occupational Health and Safety, Plumbing and Pipefitting, Heavy Equipment Repair, Automotive Electrical, Hospitality, and Cosmetology.
Located in Solwezi along Solwezi independence avenue road opposite Solwezi City Mall, North-Western Province, SOTTI offers a variety of demand-driven programmes in engineering, construction and business courses. The institute is committed to providing quality, affordable, and inclusive training that responds to community and industry needs, while fostering innovation, professionalism, and productivity among Zambia’s workforce.
To provide a diversity of high quality, community demand-driven and
affordable business and vocational skills training programmes for
the socio-economic development of individuals and the nation.
To be the leader in the provision of technical, business and
vocational skills training in Northwestern province
Principal
Vice Principal
Human Resource and Administrative Officer
HOD-Business and Construction
HOD-Engineering
HOD-Examinations
SOTTI values transparency, sincerity, fairness, honesty, accountability, respect and trust which form the foundation of its existence.
SOTTI strives for efficiency to optimize resources and deliver better services including technical integration
SOTTI endeavors to being impartial, building trust and treating people right
