Minister urges NCT to support graduates’ entry into workforce

DAR ES SALAAM: MINISTER for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr Pindi Chana has urged the National College of Tourism (NCT) to strengthen its efforts in supporting graduates as they transit into the workforce.

Speaking during the college’s graduation ceremony, Dr Chana stressed the abundance of opportunities within the tourism sector and called on NCT to actively engage with industry stakeholders to create more attachment and internship opportunities.

“I’ve seen some hotels retain students who were on internship, that’s a positive step. But NCT, don’t stop there; you still have a responsibility to identify more opportunities where these young people can apply what they’ve learned,” said Dr Chana.

She stressed the importance of prioritising Tanzanians in the tourism workforce rather than depending on foreign professionals, noting that many young Tanzanians are both capable and ready to contribute to the sector.

Tanzania’s tourism industry continues to grow steadily, attracting increasing numbers of international visitors.

To date, the country has received 5.3 million tourists, exceeding the ministry’s 2025 target of 5 million by 300,000 visitors.

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The growth has been largely attributed to the government’s efforts under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, particularly through global marketing initiatives such as The Royal Tour film and the Amazing Tanzania campaign, which have significantly boosted the country’s profile as a prime tourist destination.

In addition to the graduation ceremony, the college also celebrated the successful completion of the first cohort of students under the Learning for Life programme, conducted in partnership with Serengeti Breweries Limited (SBL).

Deputy Principal of NCT, Ms Jesca William, highlighted the impact of the programme, noting that it has helped improve service delivery across the tourism sector by producing skilled and professional providers.

“This sector is growing rapidly, and as a college, we are committed to produce more skilled professionals,” she said.