Over 8,000 youths to benefit from free vocational training

DODOMA: MORE than 8,000 youths across the country are set to benefit from vocational training opportunities in various fields, fully funded by the government.

The opportunities were announced yesterday by the Prime Minister’s Office – Labor, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disabilities under the National Skills Development Programme (NSDP), which is framed by the National Skills Development Strategy (NSDS).

The initiative aims to equip the country’s workforce with essential skills and competencies to enhance their competitiveness in the job market.

The Prime Minister’s Office has entered into agreements with 52 vocational training institutions registered with the relevant authorities.

These institutions will offer training in various fields, including fashion design and garment making, plumbing, masonry, carpentry, welding and metal fabrication, painting and sign writing.

Other areas include catering, machine parts manufacturing, automotive mechanics, household and industrial electricity, automotive electrical systems, hospitality and tourism, mineral cutting and metalwork. Eligible applicants must be Tanzanian youth aged between 15 and 35.

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Interested individuals are required to visit regional and district Vocational Education Training Authority (VETA) centres to collect application forms.

“The government will fully cover tuition fees at 100 per cent. However, students, parents, or guardians will be responsible for other expenses, including transportation to and from the institution. The training will commence on March 3 this year and will be full-time. Applicants are encouraged to apply to an institution within their region of residence,” part of the announcement read.

It further stated, “Youth with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply for these opportunities and will be given priority in the selection process.”

Among the government approved training centers are the National College of Tourism – Arusha Campus, Don Bosco Vocational Training Centre – Oyster bay, Don Bosco Technical Institute – Dodoma, Geita Vocational Training Centre, Don Bosco Youth Training Centre – Iringa, Ngara Folk Development College and VETA Mpanda.

NSDS, approved in 2016, aims to enhance technical and vocational education and training (TVET). The government prioritises this strategy to equip individuals with the necessary skills to meet job market demands.