Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has urged education and vocational training stakeholders to provide skills-based training that meets the actual demands of the job market.
“We can only understand labor market needs through continuous research conducted collaboratively by the government, the private sector, and international organizations,” he stated.
Majaliwa made these remarks today (Tuesday, March 18, 2025) during the 30th Anniversary celebration of the Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA), held at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre in Dar es Salaam.
He emphasized that in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, VETA must enhance its capacity to adapt to global technological advancements.
"Vocational training must be in sync with technological changes. Programs should integrate modern skills that enhance productivity and efficiency,” he said.
Citing the significance of vocational education, the Prime Minister referred to International Labour Organization (ILO) statistics, which indicate that approximately 70% of global employment opportunities exist within the private sector, particularly in agriculture, construction, transportation, and social services—fields that heavily rely on vocational skills.
“In Tanzania, between 2020 and 2024, around seven million jobs were created. The informal sector accounted for 6.1 million jobs, representing 87.1% of employment, with most workers possessing vocational training.
Meanwhile, the formal sector employed 907,873 people (12.9%), predominantly those with higher education,” he elaborated.
Majaliwa also directed the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology—working in partnership with the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI) and the Ministry of Industry and Trade—to accelerate the completion of 65 vocational training centers currently under construction.
He affirmed that the initiative is aligned with President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision of empowering Tanzanians with practical skills.
"Upon completion, VETA will operate 145 training centers across all 26 regions and districts. Additionally, of the 80 existing centers, 30 were completed under the Sixth Phase Government.
This is a testament to the President’s unwavering commitment to equipping Tanzanians with essential skills,” he remarked.
The Prime Minister also called on VETA to intensify efforts in publicizing available training opportunities, ensuring that young people, especially those in rural areas, can take full advantage of them.
"There are many young people, particularly in rural areas, who may be unaware of the vocational training opportunities available to them. Raising awareness is crucial," he stressed.