The Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) has unveiled six new undergraduate degree programmes aimed at producing a new generation of qualified vocational teachers for secondary schools across Tanzania.
This strategic initiative aligns with ongoing education reforms that emphasize practical, skills-based learning to meet the growing demand for hands-on training in the education sector.
The new programmes, which will commence in November this year, include Bachelor’s degrees in Crop Production with Education, Nutrition and Catering with Education, Textiles and Clothing with Education, Livestock Production with Education, Aquaculture with Education, and Horticulture with Education.
Each programme combines technical expertise with pedagogical training to equip graduates with both teaching skills and subject mastery.
Speaking to journalists at SUA’s Morogoro campus, Vice Chancellor Prof. Raphael Chibunda said the development of the curricula followed government directives that require universities to align with the revised national education system, which now includes a vocational stream in secondary schools.
“These programmes are a direct response to the government's call for universities to support the new vocational education pathway,” said Prof. Chibunda.
“They aim to address the acute shortage of skilled teachers in practical subjects, which can only be effectively taught by those with at least a university-level education.”he added
He added that SUA’s decision to invest in vocational teacher education was driven by the need to close the gap in teacher competence and ensure students receive quality, practice-based learning.
“SUA is stepping in to ensure that we not only produce teachers but educators who are skilled, hands-on, and responsive to the needs of the economy,” he said.
“Our facilities demonstration farms, laboratories, workshops are ready to provide the practical exposure required for this kind of training.”he added
Prof. Chibunda also expressed appreciation for national leadership in driving education reforms, noting, “We thank President Samia Suluhu Hassan and the Ministry of Education for championing vocational education. At SUA, we are committed to supporting these reforms by producing graduates who are ready for the job market and capable of self-employment.”he added
Prof. Maulid Mwatawala, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic, Research and Consultancy, described the new programmes as part of “systemic reforms aimed at improving the quality and relevance of secondary education in the country.”
He explained that SUA conducted both internal and national assessments to identify neglected areas in vocational education.
“We identified critical gaps in the system areas that haven’t been adequately addressed and designed these programmes to respond directly to those gaps,” he said.
He also mentioned SUA’s ongoing initiative at Mafiga Primary School, which the university oversees, as a model for practical teacher training.
“We are using Mafiga as a pilot site where trainee teachers can practice what they learn. This model allows teachers to teach through doing, and that is essential for vocational education,” Prof. Mwatawala noted.
The Director of Undergraduate Studies at SUA added that the new programmes would be delivered through participatory and experiential learning approaches.
“Our teaching methods will emphasize innovation, creativity, and real-world application. Students will engage in fieldwork, practical exercises, and community projects,” he said.
He also encouraged prospective applicants Form Six leavers and diploma holders to apply via SUA’s official website.
“These new degrees are not just about teaching content,” concluded Prof. Chibunda. “They are about transforming how we prepare our youth for the workforce by giving them teachers who know how to teach with their hands, not just their words.”