VETA launches digital platform for artisans
DODOMA: THE Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA) has launched a digital platform, Fundi Connect, aimed at identifying and registering artisans across the country, while creating a direct link between service providers and customers.
Unveiling the initiative in Dodoma on Monday, VETA Executive Director Mr Anthony Kasore said the system forms part of broader efforts to modernise vocational skills development and expand employment opportunities for young people. He said that the platform serves as a bridge between artisans and individuals seeking various services.
“Instead of searching for a plumber through neighbours, a person can log into the system, select the region and district, and access a list of registered plumbers available in that area. Communication can then be made directly through the platform. It works in a similar way to taxi-hailing applications,” he said.
Mr Kasore added that the system also features a marketplace section, enabling artisans to showcase and sell products they manufacture, while reaching potential buyers more easily.
“We believe this platform will provide greater opportunities for citizens to access reliable services and for artisans to secure markets for their products. It will also motivate skilled individuals by assuring them that a market exists,” he noted.
In a related development, Mr Kasore said the government has approved the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) framework, which formalises skills acquired outside the formal training system.
He described the programme as a significant opportunity for young people who have gained skills in workplaces but lack recognised certificates.
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Under the arrangement, VETA conducts assessments and awards certificates to qualifying candidates, enabling them to access formal employment and compete for tenders.
As of January 2026, a total of 25,523 apprentices, 21,547 men and 3,976 women had benefited from the RPL programme. For the 2025/2026 financial year, VETA is targeting to formalise the skills of 30,000 artisans under the Mama Samia Skills Formalisation Programme, which aims to certify 80,000 youths nationwide by June 2027.
“This is a major opportunity for young artisans who acquired skills through workplace experience to have their competencies formally recognised,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mr Kasore said VETA has identified many highly skilled artisans, including graduates of VETA colleges and those trained through informal systems, and has initiated collaboration with them in delivering training. By January 2026, VETA had recognised and partnered with 1,086 master artisans nationwide.
“We invite master artisans from various fields to collaborate with VETA training centres in equipping youth with practical skills while also benefiting from the support of trainees,” he said.
