The National Examinations Council of Tanzania (NECTA) has introduced fast-track processing of replacement certificates and education equivalency services at the 50th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (Sabasaba), enabling applicants with complete documentation to receive services within one to two days instead of the usual 30 days.
The initiative is part of the council's efforts to bring public services closer to citizens during the annual trade fair, which runs from June 28 to July 13.
Speaking at the exhibition, NECTA Public Relations Officer John Nchimbi said the council is providing a range of education-related services, with replacement certificates for lost academic credentials and certificate equivalency for qualifications obtained outside Tanzania among the most sought-after.
"Under normal procedures, processing a replacement certificate takes up to 30 days. During the Sabasaba exhibition, however, applicants who submit all the required documents can receive the service within one or two days," he said.
According to Mr Nchimbi, applicants seeking replacement certificates must submit a newspaper notice declaring the loss of the certificate, a police loss report, a passport-size photograph and a copy of a valid identification document.
Those applying for certificate equivalency are required to present their academic certificate issued by the relevant examination authority or institution, a valid identification document and a passport-size photograph.
He said the special arrangement is intended to help people who have experienced delays in accessing the services while improving convenience by allowing applicants to complete the process at the exhibition.
Mr Nchimbi said NECTA's stand is located at the Jakaya Kikwete Pavilion at the Sabasaba grounds, where officials are available to provide guidance, receive applications and respond to public inquiries.
He also announced that registration for private candidates sitting the Advanced Certificate of Secondary Education Examination (ACSEE) officially opened on July 1.
Candidates intending to sit the examination as private candidates or to retake the examination have been encouraged to visit the NECTA stand for registration guidance and assistance with the application process.
Mr Nchimbi said the council had deployed enough staff at the exhibition to ensure visitors receive timely services throughout the trade fair.
He urged members of the public to take advantage of the limited-time initiative, saying it offers a quicker and more convenient way to access essential education services than the standard application process.
