Private companies, financial institutions and development partners have been urged to strengthen support for young people who have completed vocational training under the Dumisha Amani (Sustain Peace) project, with a focus on expanding employment, entrepreneurship and economic opportunities.
Speaking on behalf of the Mtwara Regional Commissioner during the project's graduation ceremony at the Mtwara Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA) college on July 12, Mtwara District Commissioner Abdallah Mwaipaya said sustained investment in youth would ensure the skills acquired through the programme translate into lasting economic benefits.
He called on stakeholders to provide graduates with start-up tools, access to finance, markets and employment opportunities to help them establish businesses and build sustainable livelihoods.
"These young people have acquired valuable skills. What they need now is continued support so that the training delivers its intended impact through businesses, jobs and improved household incomes," Mwaipaya said.
He also encouraged the graduates to become agents of positive change by applying their skills to create value-added products, pursue self-employment and contribute to reducing youth unemployment in their communities.
The vocational training programme was delivered under the Dumisha Amani project, supported by the United Nations Peace and Development Fund (UNPDF), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), CPP and GPF Tanzania.
UNDP Tanzania Resident Representative Shigeki Komatsubara said the project's second phase will deepen investments in youth empowerment in Mtwara through improvements to vocational training facilities and learning resources.
He said planned interventions include renovating classrooms, supplying modern teaching and learning equipment, and establishing a Youth Centre that will provide a platform for innovation, entrepreneurship and continued skills development.
Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Chen Mingjian urged the graduates to use the knowledge and practical skills they had acquired to improve their lives while contributing to the development of their communities.
VETA Director General CPA Anthony Kasore thanked the project's development partners, saying their support reflects the growing international cooperation aimed at strengthening vocational education and creating opportunities for Tanzania's youth.
Representing the graduates, Mesia Jimmy said the beneficiaries are committed to applying the skills gained to establish businesses, create employment for other young people and promote peaceful and productive communities.
The Dumisha Amani project was implemented at four VETA colleges in Mtwara, Lindi, Songea and Kigoma regions, equipping 240 young people with vocational skills intended to enhance employability, entrepreneurship and social cohesion.
