The Director General of the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH), Dr Amos Nungu, has said a new partnership between universities and the industrial sector will transform how young people perceive employment, moving them away from overreliance on government jobs.
Dr Nungu made the remarks on February 9, 2026, during the launch of the University–Industry Collaboration Programme, held at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Ilala, Dar es Salaam.
The conference was officially opened by the Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Ambassador Dr Emmanuel John Nchimbi.
He said the initiative is part of wider education sector reforms aimed at improving curricula so that graduates are equipped with relevant, market-oriented skills.
“Collaboration between education institutions and employers is a key component of education sector transformation. It helps change the long-held mindset that the central government is the only source of employment for young people,” Dr Nungu said.
He added that COSTECH will continue to support government efforts through practical interventions, working with affiliated institutions such as the Tanzania Education and Training Authority (TET) to strengthen linkages between employers and education institutions.
Dr Nungu highlighted the Samia Innovation Fund, launched in 2024, as a critical government initiative supporting early-stage innovators to commercialise their ideas and access the market.
He cited the example of MITZKIT, an innovation-driven company supported by COSTECH after submitting a project proposal and later participating in the National Science and Technology Competition (MAKISATU). The company currently provides industrial practical training opportunities to students.
“This shows how innovation support can translate into real jobs, skills development and exposure for young people,” he said.
Dr Nungu noted that the university–industry partnership will enhance young people’s ability to be self-employed or absorbed into the private sector, while reducing dependence on public sector employment.
He also shared the case of a young helicopter innovator from Songwe Region who was supported by COSTECH and linked to Nyumbu Institution, where he acquired hands-on skills across the full innovation cycle, including design, manufacturing, testing and quality assurance.
“Afterwards, he shifted focus to developing agricultural tools to meet market needs. Today, he produces high-demand products, and his workshop offers practical training to students,” Dr Nungu said.
He concluded that the partnership programme will reshape youth employment perspectives by producing job-ready graduates through improved curricula, incorporating employer feedback, strengthening labour market competitiveness and ensuring innovations successfully reach the market.