By Charles Mkoka
The National College of Tourism (NCT) has called on young Tanzanians to enrol in its hospitality and tourism programmes, saying the country’s expanding tourism industry is creating increasing demand for skilled professionals capable of delivering world-class services.
Speaking at the NCT exhibition booth within the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism pavilion during the ongoing Public Service Week exhibitions at Chinangali Park in Dodoma, college officials said the institution is currently receiving applications for new students at its Dar es Salaam and Arusha campuses.
They noted that despite the continued growth of Tanzania’s tourism sector and increasing investment in hotels and tourism facilities, there remains a shortage of trained personnel in key areas including customer care, housekeeping, food production, food and beverage services, accommodation operations and hospitality management.
According to the college, many Tanzanians still have limited awareness of hospitality-related courses and the wide range of career opportunities available in the industry.
The institution said its programmes are designed to equip students with practical, market-driven skills that enable them to secure formal employment, establish their own businesses and contribute to the growth of the tourism economy.
Beyond employment in hotels, lodges and restaurants, graduates can also venture into self-employment opportunities including catering, bakery and other food-related businesses.
NCT further emphasised that vocational and technical education should focus on developing practical abilities and not only academic qualifications, adding that many hospitality careers depend on competence, professionalism and hands-on experience.
The college also encouraged the private sector and the public to continue investing in skills development to improve customer service standards and strengthen Tanzania’s competitiveness as a leading tourism destination.
The Public Service Week exhibitions, running at Chinangali Park in Dodoma, have brought together government institutions to showcase services, innovations and opportunities available to citizens, including education and career pathways in key economic sectors.
