The Morogoro Vocational Teachers Training College (MVTTC) has unveiled an ambitious plan to increase its student-teacher enrollment from 500 this year to 3,100 by 2026.
This initiative aims to bridge the growing demand for vocational educators in Tanzania, ensuring that schools are well-equipped with skilled instructors.
According to MVTTC Principal Samwel Kaali, the expansion aligns with ongoing reforms in teaching and learning curricula for both primary and secondary schools.
He made these remarks in Morogoro during the 30th-anniversary celebrations of the Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA), which coincided with the 50th anniversary of Tanzania’s institutionalized vocational training system.
Kaali emphasized that students are now trained in vocational disciplines designed to provide hands-on skills.
As part of these efforts, the college is prioritizing the training of more vocational teachers to meet the increasing demand for skilled educators in technical fields.
The celebrations also marked the launch of renovation work at the metal fabrication and welding workshop at Msamvu Technical School, one of Tanzania’s oldest vocational training institutions. The school caters to both mainstream students and those with special needs.
Kaali noted that MVTTC has expanded its infrastructure, including dormitories and workshops, enabling the introduction of 18 new training programs tailored to meet market demands.
Additionally, the college identified the need for critical upgrades to the electrical system at Msamvu Technical School, which accommodates 155 students.
"As part of our community service initiative, we have undertaken the renovation of this workshop, including upgrading the electrical system, replacing the old roof, and installing a new concrete floor," Kaali stated.
Beyond infrastructure improvements, MVTTC has donated essential learning and teaching materials to support vocational studies at Msamvu Technical School.
Msamvu Technical School Headmistress Lydia Molel expressed gratitude for the support but acknowledged that the school still faces significant infrastructure and equipment challenges.
"The roofing sheets donated here will not go to waste. We plan to use them to build a cooking shelter for students. Our vocational masonry lessons have also been a great help—students construct structures, and with the small earnings from orders, we have managed to renovate the office building you see in front of you," she explained.
Former students from the 2022 class, including Husein Msagati and Wilson Kobelo, praised the school for equipping them with valuable life skills. However, they noted that some pressing challenges remain.
"We hope additional support will come. For instance, accessing toilets was difficult since we had to share them with a nearby primary school. It would be better to have dedicated facilities closer to our classrooms. Also, the workshop is too small—when one group is inside, others have to wait outside until they finish," said Msagati.
Morogoro Municipality Acting Primary Education Officer Amina Kova commended the school for providing training in metalwork, tailoring, catering, masonry, and domestic electrical installation.
She emphasized that vocational training offers crucial opportunities for youth who might otherwise struggle to find employment or risk engaging in unlawful activities.
"Vocational skills create sustainable livelihoods. Every day, new houses are being built, events require catering services, and vehicle repairs are always in demand. Technical skills offer young people a direct path to employment and entrepreneurship," Kova said.