Tanzania banks on vocational training to develop a modern, competitive workforce
DAR ES SALAAM: PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa said the Tanzanian government will continue to develop a modern and competitive workforce capable of thriving in both regional and international labor markets.
He said the goal is to ensure that this workforce contributes effectively to stimulating economic growth for individuals and the nation as a whole.
PM Majaliwa made the remarks today in Dar es Salaam, while representing President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan at the opening of the Julius Kambarage Nyerere Memorial Symposium held at the Maktaba Mpya Hall of the University of Dar es Salaam.
“The success of our nation in the coming years will largely depend on the quality of its people. The foundation of our national development lies in skilled, creative, and ethical citizens. We must prioritize quality education, skills, innovation, and patriotism as tools for building a prosperous, peaceful, and inclusive nation,” he said.
He added that, to ensure Tanzania prepares a strong and capable workforce, the Tanzanian government has implemented various initiatives, including the introduction of Vocational and Technical Education and Training (VET and TVET) programs by expanding the number of VETA colleges in every district and increasing the number of students receiving practical training.
“Additionally, the government has launched the National Skills Development Programme aimed at building the capacity of young people in sectors such as agriculture, industry, technology, energy, and services,” he noted.
Majaliwa also urged universities, research institutions, the private sector, and young people across Tanzania to collaborate in implementing the goals of the National Vision 2050.
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In another development, the Prime Minister called on business institutions, industries, and private organizations to collaborate with government institutions to establish workplace training programs that enhance professional skills.
For his part, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Professor Daniel Mushi, said the Ministry recognizes the role of the private sector in strengthening the nation’s workforce through the implementation of various projects, including infrastructure development, internship programs, and research, as well as improving private education institutions.
“Moreover, the Government has continued to increase funding to improve the Higher Education Students’ Loans Board system to ensure that every student from a low-income family has equal access to learning opportunities,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Mwalimu Nyerere Professorial Chair, Professor Alexander Makulilo, said the purpose of the symposium is to promote and honor Mwalimu Nyerere’s legacy in human resource development, identify strategic approaches for building a skilled workforce aligned with the National Vision 2050, and enhance dialogue among stakeholders on policy and innovation.
